Head-worn personal audio apparatus supporting enhanced hearing support

ABSTRACT

Techniques for providing wearable electronic devices with electrical components are disclosed. The electrical components can provide electrical technology to eyewear to facilitate audio support including enhanced hearing. The electrical components can operate independently or together with other electrical components provided elsewhere. The wearable electronic devices with electronic components can, for example, provide audio output, audio enhancements, or event-related audio content.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/873,104, filed Jul. 25, 2022, and entitled WEARABLE AUDIO SYSTEMSUPPORTING ENHANCED HEARING SUPPORT,” now U.S. Pat. No. 11,644,693,which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, which in turn is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/484,080, filed Sep.24, 2021, and entitled “EYEWEAR SUPPORTING EMBEDDED ELECTRONICCOMPONENTS FOR AUDIO SUPPORT,” which is hereby incorporated herein byreference, which in turn is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/574,254, filed Sep. 18, 2019, and entitled “EYEWEARSUPPORTING EMBEDDED AND TETHERED ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS,” now U.S. Pat.No. 11,204,512, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, whichin turn is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/049,120, filed Jul. 30, 2018, and entitled “EYEWEAR SUPPORTINGEMBEDDED ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS,” now U.S. Pat. No. 11,243,416, which ishereby incorporated herein by reference, which in turn is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/375,423, filed Dec. 12, 2016, andentitled “EYEWEAR SUPPORTING EMBEDDED ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS,” now U.S.Pat. No. 10,061,144, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference,which in turn is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/557,409, filed Dec. 1, 2014, and entitled “EYEWEAR SUPPORTINGEMBEDDED ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS,” now U.S. Pat. No. 9,547,184, which ishereby incorporated herein by reference, which in turn is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/955,336, filed Jul. 31, 2013, andentitled “EYEWEAR SUPPORTING BONE CONDUCTING SPEAKER,” now U.S. Pat. No.8,905,542, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, which inturn is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/085,402,filed Apr. 12, 2011, and entitled “EYEWEAR SUPPORTING AFTER-MARKETELECTRICAL COMPONENTS,” now U.S. Pat. No. 8,500,271, which is herebyincorporated by reference, which in turn is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/183,269, filed Jul. 15, 2005, andentitled “EYEWEAR SUPPORTING AFTER-MARKET ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS,” nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,922,321, which is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

This application, by way of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/183,269,also claims priority to each of: (i) U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/592,045, filed Jul. 28, 2004, entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH A CLOCKOR OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENT,” and which is hereby incorporated hereinby reference; (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/605,191,filed Aug. 28, 2004, entitled “ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOR USE WITHEYEWEAR, AND METHODS THEREFOR,” and which is hereby incorporated hereinby reference; (iii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/618,107,filed Oct. 12, 2004, and entitled “TETHERED ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOREYEGLASSES,” which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; (iv) U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/620,238, filed Oct. 18, 2004,entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH HEARING ENHANCED AND OTHER AUDIOSIGNAL-GENERATING CAPABILITIES,” and which is hereby incorporated hereinby reference; (v) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/647,836,filed Jan. 31, 2005, and entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH HEART RATE MONITOR,”which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; and (vi) U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/647,826, filed Jan. 31, 2005, andentitled “EYEWEAR WITH ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS,” which is herebyincorporated herein by reference.

In addition, this application is related to each of: (i) U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/822,218, filed Apr. 12, 2004, and entitled“EYEGLASSES FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS,” now U.S. Pat. No. 7,792,552,which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; (ii) U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/964,011, filed Oct. 12, 2004, and entitled“TETHERED ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOR EYEGLASSES,” now U.S. Pat. No.7,192,136, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; (iii) U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/006,343, filed Dec. 7, 2004, and entitled“ADAPTABLE COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES,” now U.S.Pat. No. 7,116,976, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference;(iv) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/078,855, filed Mar. 11, 2005,and entitled “EYEWEAR WITH RADIATION DETECTION SYSTEM,” now U.S. Pat.No. 7,500,746, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; (v)U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/078,857, filed Mar. 11, 2005, andentitled “RADIATION MONITORING SYSTEM,” which is hereby incorporatedherein by reference; (vi) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/183,283,filed Jul. 15, 2005, and entitled “EVENT EYEGLASSES,” which is herebyincorporated herein by reference; (vii) U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/183,262, filed Jul. 15, 2005, and entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH HEARINGENHANCED AND OTHER AUDIO SIGNAL-GENERATING CAPABILITIES,” now U.S. Pat.No. 7,760,898, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; (viii)U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/183,256, filed Jul. 15, 2005, andentitled “EYEGLASSES WITH ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS,” now U.S. Pat. No.7,500,747, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; (ix) U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/183,263, filed Jul. 15, 2005, andentitled “EYEGLASSES WITH A CLOCK OR OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENT,” nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,380,936, which is hereby incorporated herein byreference; and (x) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/183,276, filedJul. 15, 2005, and entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH ACTIVITY MONITORING,” nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,255,437, which is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditionally, eye worn products have not contained or made any use ofelectrical components. In recent years, attempts to include electricalcomponents within eyeglasses have had limited success. Evenincorporating a small electrical component, such as a microphone, intoeyewear, such as an eyeglass frame, may not be a simple task because,for example, of the necessary electrical connections with the electricalcomponent. Clearly, larger scale electrical components would be moredifficult to be provided in or attached to eyewear, such as eyeglassframes. For example, many eyeglass frames tend to be very compact andlightweight and thus may not have a lot of space for electricalcomponents. Moreover, since eyewear, such as eyeglass frames, are oftenfashionable items whose designs are important, there are substantialdesign tradeoffs involved with providing or attaching electricalcomponents to such products.

Accordingly, there remains a need for improved approaches to facilitateuse of electrical components with eyewear.

SUMMARY

Generally speaking, the invention pertains to techniques for providingwearable electronic devices (e.g., head-worn electronic devices, such aseyewear) with electrical components are disclosed. The electricalcomponents can provide electrical technology to eyewear to facilitateaudio support including enhanced hearing. The electrical components canoperate independently or together with other electrical componentsprovided elsewhere. The wearable electronic devices with electroniccomponents can, for example, provide audio output, audio enhancements,or event-related audio content.

The electrical components can support signal capturing, signalprocessing, signal transmission, signal display, signal storage and/orpower provision. The signals can be, for example, analog or digitalsignals. The electrical components can, for example, be used to provideaudio output and/or audio pick-up. The electrical components may includeand/or control one or more sensors to monitor and/or signal theconditions of a user of the eyewear. The electrical components may alsoinclude and/or control one or more operation indicators to signaloperational status of at least some other electrical components. Inaddition, the electrical components can be or pertain to a circuit boardor module, which includes a plurality of electrical components.

The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including a method,system, device, apparatus, and a computer readable medium. Severalembodiments of the invention are discussed below.

In one embodiment, the one or more electrical components support audiocapabilities allowing a user to hear audio output. In anotherembodiment, the one or more electrical components support communicationcapabilities allowing a user to communicate with a communication devicein a hands-free manner.

Embodiments can also relate to tethered electrical components foreyeglasses. According to a number of embodiments of the invention, anapparatus having one or more external electrical components can betethered, through a tethering mechanism, to one or more electricalcomponents within or attached to a pair of eyeglasses. The one or moreexternal electrical components being tethered by the tetheringmechanism, such as a cable or a cord, may be referred to herein as the‘tethered electrical components.’ While the one or more electricalcomponents in or attached to the glasses can be referred to herein as‘eyeglass electrical components.’

Tethered electrical components, alone or in combination with eyeglasselectrical components can be used for a variety of differentapplications and uses. Examples of applications and uses include awireless communication system, a radiation monitoring system, a healthmonitoring system or a fitness monitoring system. In one embodiment, thetethered electrical components can support wireless communicationcapabilities allowing a user to communicate with a communication devicein a wireless and hands-free manner. In another embodiment, the tetheredelectrical components can support radiation monitoring such as formonitoring ultraviolet or solar radiation for a wearer of eyeglasses. Instill other embodiments, the tethered electrical components can supporthealth or fitness monitoring for a wearer of eyeglasses.

The tethered electrical components can support signal capturing, signalprocessing, signal transmission, data acquisition, data processing,and/or data storage. For example, the tethered electrical componentscan, for example, include a power source and/or an electroniccontroller. The tethered electrical components may also include and/orcontrol one or more operation indicators to signal operational status ofthe tethered electrical components. In addition, the tethered electricalcomponents may also include and/or control one or more sensors tomonitor and/or signal conditions of users.

In other embodiments, a pair of glasses can be provided with one or moreembedded or partially embedded electrical components. In a number of theembodiments, with one or more electrical components in the glasses, theelectrical components are much easier to operate. For example, you donot have to take an electronic device out from your pocket to use it.The electronic device may already be in your glasses, and you just haveto turn it on.

In one embodiment, the electrical components in a pair of glasses caninclude a speaker and a connector, both at least partially embedded inthe glasses. The connector can be a standard or a non-standardconnector. The connector can be a male or a female connector. Theconnector can be at different location on the glasses. For example, theconnector can be at the end of a temple of the glasses. The speaker iselectrically coupled to the connector. The connection can be with aprinted-circuit board in the glasses. The printed-circuit board can be aflexible or rigid printed-circuit board. With the connector, the glassescan access audio signals from an external device, such as a multimediaasset player.

In another embodiment, a pair of glasses can include a storage medium.The memory device can be coupled to another electronic instrumentexternal to the glasses through one or more connectors at the glasses.Such a pair of glasses allows file storage in the glasses.

In yet another embodiment, a pair of glasses can include a speaker, acoder/decoder, a processor and a storage medium. The pair of glasses canserve as a multimedia asset player, such as a MP3 player. There can alsobe a connector at the glasses to facilitate the transfer of multimediaassets.

Instead of just receiving signals, in one embodiment, a pair of glassescan have a microphone and a wireless transceiver. The pair of glassesallows a user to engage in wireless communication.

In another embodiment, a pair of glasses with wireless couplingcapabilities can include a preference indicator. The indicator allows auser to indicate the user's preference regarding, for example, what isbeing output by the glasses. There can be a radio embedded in theglasses. If the user provides her preference on, for example, the songbeing played, her preferences can be remotely tracked by a third party.There can be a multimedia asset player in the glasses, with themultimedia assets wirelessly received by the glasses. If the userprovides her preference on the assets being played, these assets can bestored in a storage medium in the glasses for later consumption.

In yet another embodiment, there can be one or more knobs on theglasses, for controlling operations of electrical components in theglasses. The location and the number of knobs vary depending on theapplications.

In a further embodiment, the glasses can include a camera. The cameracan capture what the user sees. In other words, what the user sees canbe what the user gets. Images captured can be stored at a remote site.This can be achieved, for example, by downloading the images to astorage device using a connector at the glasses. Or, if the glasses havewirelessly connection capabilities, the images can be wirelesslytransmitted to the remote site. The glasses with a camera allow the userwearing the glasses to be remotely control.

In still another embodiment, a pair of glasses can include one or moresensors. There can be different types of sensors. For example, onesensor can be used to determine if the pair of glasses is being worn.Another sensor can be used to detect an environmental condition, such asthe amount of ultraviolet radiation in the vicinity of the glasses. Yetanother sensor can be used to detect a condition of the user.

Different embodiments of glasses that can be applied to multiplefunctions. With a user wearing such a pair of glasses, it would be moredifficult for a third party to know the specific function or reason theuser is wearing the glasses for. Regarding the locations of theelectrical components for the multiple functions, different embodimentsrange from all of the components in the glasses to the glasses primarilyfunctioning as a headset.

In one embodiment, a pair of glasses can be provided with hearingenhancement and other signal generating capabilities. Most people todaydo not desire to wear hearing aids or hearing enhancement devices. Onemajor reason could be that they do not want to be perceived as beingold. In this embodiment, a pair of glasses, with speakers, has hearingenhancement capabilities. With the speakers in the glasses, the speakerscan be positioned in close proximity to the ears of the users. Inaddition to having hearing enhancement capabilities, the glasses alsoinclude at least one electrical component to generate other audiosignals. For example, the glasses can play music. Such ahearing-enhanced device can remove the associated stigma of conventionalhearing aids. A third party may not be able to tell whether the user iswearing the glasses to hear music or whether the user is wearing theglasses to have his hearing enhanced.

In one embodiment, a pair of glasses can include at least one speakerand typically two. Each speaker is in one of the temples of the glasses,closer to the corresponding hinge of that temple than the other end (thefree end) of the temple. There can also be a tube extending from thespeaker to guide sound generated by the speaker to the corresponding earof the user. The tube can be rotated, such as from behind the temple tobeing downward at an angle towards the ear of the user. The two speakerscan also be electrically connected by a conductor, with the conductorlinking the speakers through the lens holders of the glasses. Theglasses can include a microphone, which can be located close to one ofthe hinges of the glasses. In another embodiment, there can be twomicrophones. The one or more microphones can be directional forreceiving signals in specific directions.

In another embodiment, to reduce the weight of the glasses and toenhance the ease of aesthetic design of the glasses, some of the hearingenhanced electronics are not in the glasses. Instead they are in aportable device carried by the user. The portable device iselectronically coupled to the glasses wirelessly or through a wiredconnection.

In another embodiment, the glasses can include a wireless transceiver.In this embodiment, the microphone does not have to be at the glasses.The microphone can also be wirelessly coupled to the glasses and/or theportable device.

In another embodiment, the glasses can include a connector for at leastone wire to be connected to the glasses. The connector can be at thefree end of one of the temples of the glasses, or the connector can beat another location at the glasses. Different types of standard ornon-standard connectors can be used. In the wired embodiment, themicrophone also does not have to be at the glasses. The microphone canbe mounted on the wire that connects the glasses to the portable device.

The glasses can have a number of hearing enhancing capabilities. In oneembodiment, the hearing enhancement is for those with mild or mediumhearing loss. In another embodiment, the hearing enhancement is forthose with severe hearing loss.

One hearing enhancement functionality is frequency-dependentamplification. For example, higher frequencies are amplified more thanlower frequencies; certain frequency bands are not amplified; or thefrequencies to be amplified are tailored to the user.

To tailor the amplification to a user, hearing enhancement capabilitiescan be calibrated against the user. The calibration can be done by theuser or by a third party. The calibration can be performed through awebsite, which guides the user through the process. The calibratedfrequency hearing profile of the user can be stored. Such calibrationcan be performed periodically, such as once a year.

The glasses may also include at least one electrical component for powermanagement. Hearing enhancement does not have to be fully functional atall times. In one embodiment, the hearing enhancement function is ondemand. The enhancement can go into a sleep mode when there is no audiofluctuation beyond a certain threshold in the ambient environment. Theamplification can also depend on the ambient noise level.

In other embodiments, the glasses can also have at least one electricalcomponent to generate other audio signals. These other audio signals donot originate from signals captured by the microphone(s) in the glasses.These signals can originate from relatively private sources or publicsources.

In one example of signals originating from private sources, the glassescan include the electrical components to operate as a phone. The glassescan pick up signals from a caller, and the speaker(s) in the glassesre-generate the audio signals of the caller. Again some of theelectrical components of the phone can be in a portable device wired orwirelessly coupled to the glasses. There can be an indicator indicatingan incoming call. The indicator could be a signal light.

Regarding processing an incoming call, in one embodiment, if the userwants to pick up the incoming call, the hearing enhancement mode can bedeactivated. In another embodiment, one or more functionalities of thehearing enhancement mode can operate on the incoming call. There canalso be noise cancellation functionalities, such as through twodirectional microphones, one pointing at the user's mouth, and the otherpointing away.

In another example of signals originating from private sources, theglasses can include the electrical components to operate as a player.Again some of the electrical components of the player can be in aportable device wired or wirelessly coupled to the glasses. The playercan be a MP3 or other multimedia asset player. The player can be aradio. The radio can be personalized to the user, for example, by beingaware of the songs the user prefers. In one embodiment, when the userstarts the player, the hearing enhancement mode can be deactivated. Inanother embodiment, different capabilities of the hearing enhancementmode operate on the signals from the player.

In yet another embodiment, the other audio signals are from publicsources. For example, the glasses can be coupled to a conferencemicrophone or a theater speaker wirelessly, and thus be capable ofcapturing and enhancing the signals from those sources. Again, thecoupling can be through a portable device wired or wirelessly coupled tothe glasses.

There can be one or more control knobs or switches at the glasses or ata portable device coupled to the glasses. Different types of switchesare applicable for different applications.

Regarding power sources for the electrical components in the glasses, inone embodiment, the power sources, such as batteries, are in theglasses. In another embodiment, the power sources are located outsidethe glasses, but connected to the glasses through an adapter. In yetanother embodiment, the power sources are in a portable deviceelectrically connected to the glasses, and the power sources can berechargeable.

A number of embodiments have been described with glasses having hearingenhanced and/or other audio signal generation capabilities. In oneembodiment, the glasses function as a headset and are adaptable fordifferent applications, such as hearing enhancement, communication (e.g.phone operation) and listening to audio signals (e.g. MP3 operation).When a person is using the headset, a third party again may not be ableto tell whether the person is having his hearing enhanced, or listeningto other audio signals generated.

Additional benefits of having glasses as headsets are that eyeglassesframes tend to be very compact and lightweight and thus have littlespace for electrical components. With at least a portion of theelectrical components for a system, such as a hearing enhancementsystem, outside the glasses, additional weights required for the systemon the glasses are reduced. Further, eyeglass frames are oftenfashionable items whose designs are important. By reducing the amount ofelectrical components, and in turn, space required in the glasses,design tradeoffs required due to having electrical components in theeyeglass frames are reduced.

In a first example of glasses functioning as a headset, the glasses caninclude a connector and two speakers, one at each temple, both speakerselectrically connected through the glasses. The connector can be locatedat the free end of one of the temples. The connector can be used toreceive stereo signals, such as from an MP3 player. Based on aheadset-to-phone cord, the speakers in the headset can also be used toreceive a phone call.

In a second example of the glasses functioning as a headset, the glassescan include two connectors. Each connector can be at one of the templetips of the glasses, and each connector can be connected to the speakerat that temple. To send audio signals to the speakers, the twoconnectors can be tethered and connected together through a connectorexternal to the glasses. The external connector can then operate as theconnector in the first example. Regarding other embodiments, thespeakers can be in the temples, such as closer to their correspondinglens holders than the free end of the temples. In another example, thespeakers can be in the region of the temple tips. The speakers can beembedded in the glasses or can be external to the glasses on stubs orextensions. For speakers that are embedded in the glasses, each speakercan have a tube extending towards an ear to guide audio signals. At theend of each tube, there can be an ear bud for inserting into the ear.The tubes can be permanently attached to the glasses, or each can beattachable to the glasses. The tubes or the stubs can also beretractable and extendable, and the position of the tubes or the stubscan be adjustable.

In a number of embodiments, embodiments can pertain to eyewear having anactivity monitoring capability. Activity, such as motion, steps ordistance, can be measured by an activity detector. The measured activitycan then be used in providing activity-related information to a user ofthe eyewear. Advantageously, the user of the eyewear is able to easilymonitor their degree of activity, without the need to carry a separateelectrical device.

In one embodiment, the activity monitoring is provided by a pedometer. Apedometer can also be referred to as a pedometer system herein.

In one embodiment, all components for activity monitoring can beintegrated with eyewear (e.g., eyeglasses), such as a frame (e.g., atemple of the frame) of the eyewear. As an example, the eyewear normallyincludes a pair of temples, and the components for activity monitoringcan be embedded within one or both of the temples. In oneimplementation, all components for activity monitoring are integratedinto a single temple of the frame of the eyewear. As an example, thesecomponents can be formed together on a substrate. The substrate with thecomponents mounted and interconnected can be referred to as a module.Embedding such a module into the eyewear can thus provide the eyewearwith activity monitoring capability with minimal disturbance to designfeatures of the eyewear.

In one embodiment, the eyewear includes an activity detector, electricalcircuitry and an output device. The eyewear can also include one or bothof a battery and a solar cell to provide power to the electricalcircuitry and possibly other components. Further, the eyewear can alsoinclude one or more additional sensors. Still further, the eyewear canalso include one or more of a being-worn indicator, a memory for datastorage, one or more switches, and communication capabilities.

As a pair of glasses, one embodiment can include at least: a first lensholder having a first side and a second side; a second lens holderhaving a first side and a second side; a bridge element coupling thefirst side of the first lens holder to the second side of the secondlens holder; a first temple pivotally secured to the second side of thefirst lens holder through a first joint; a second temple pivotallysecured to the first side of the second lens holder through a secondjoint; and a pedometer system at least partially embedded in theglasses.

As a pair of glasses, another embodiment can include at least: aneyeglass frame having at least a pair of lens holders and a pair oftemples; and a functional module including a plurality of electricalcomponents that are electrically interconnected with a substrate. Theeyeglass frame also includes a cavity for receiving the functionalmodule.

As a pair of glasses, still another embodiment can include at least: aframe having at least a bridge and a pair of temples; and an activitymonitor at least partially embedded in the frame and operable to measureactivity associated with a user of the pair of glasses.

One embodiment can pertain to a pair of glasses that can provide, in anaudio manner, information to a user. The user does not have to hold ontothe glasses to hear the information. In other words, the information isprovided in a hands-free manner. The information can be pre-recorded. Inanother embodiment, the information is transmitted to and received bythe glasses. This allows the information to be dynamic. Though notnecessary, the information can be directly relevant to an event attendedby the user. There can also be a user input mechanism at the glasses toallow the user to provide user input, including user feedback.

In one embodiment, a pair of glasses has first and second lens holdersfor receiving lenses. Each of the lens holders has a first side and asecond side. The pair of glasses has a bridge element that couples thefirst side of the first lens holder to the second side of the secondlens holder. The pair of glasses also includes a first temple and asecond temple. The temples can also be known as arms. The first templeis pivotally secured to the second side of the first lens holder througha joint, while the second temple is pivotally secured to the first sideof the second lens holder through another joint. The pair of glasses canalso include a speaker, which is powered by a power source, and thespeaker can be turned on and off.

In another embodiment, each of the temples has a tapered profile that iswider when it is closer to its corresponding joint. Each lens holder canalso have a shield at least at one of its edges. In one embodiment, theshields are shaped to generally conform to the profile of the face ofthe wearer. The surface areas on the temples or the shields can be usedfor promotion. For example, advertisements can be located on theseareas.

A pair of glasses can deliver information through a speaker at theglasses to the person wearing the glasses. The information can berelated to an event. The event can be organized (or sponsored) by acompany. For example, an event can be a sporting contest, a trade show,a tour, etc. In another embodiment, an event can be viewed from theperspective of the person attending it. For example, an event can bebuying a product from a store. When the person is at the store, theperson is at the event.

The information available can be for entertainment, or for promotion ofa product or a company. The information can be in different languagesdepending on the preference of the person. The information can beavailable for a limited duration of time. This duration of time can beset by an event. When the event is over, there can be no moreinformation available. The duration can also be set by the power sourcerunning the electrical components in the glasses. The power source canbe designed such that it is not replaceable by the user, or replacingthe power source typically would break at least a portion of theglasses. So, when the power source is drained, no more information willbe available to the user.

In one embodiment, a speaker at a pair of glasses cab be part of aradio, and the information is wirelessly received by the radio. Inanother embodiment, the speaker can be part of a player, with theinformation previously recorded and stored in a storage medium of theplayer. The previously recorded information can be stored in theglasses, or in a storage device attachable to the glasses.

In another embodiment, a pair of glasses can include an informationinput mechanism, which allows a user to provide inputs. The mechanismcan be implemented by a switch at the glasses. The glasses can have atransceiver. The user inputs can be wirelessly transmitted to, forexample, the company sponsoring the event that the user is attending.The company can use such glasses, for example, to obtain feedback fromthe audience of the event.

In one embodiment, a pair of glasses can be given away, such as forpromotional purposes. The glasses can also be rented out during anevent. Such glasses can be tracked with bar codes or RFID tags.

In yet another embodiment, a pair of glasses can function as a headset,and are wired or wirelessly coupled to a portable device. The portabledevice can also be carried by the user of the glasses. The portabledevice can provide more areas for user inputs and outputs.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent fromthe following detailed description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, theprinciples of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be readily understood by the following detaileddescription in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein likereference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pair of glasses according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram of a number of different embodiments oftemple arrangements according to the invention.

FIG. 3A is a diagram of a temple arrangement according to one embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 3B is a diagram of a temple cover that at least partially covers atemple (e.g., temple and/or temple tip) according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 3C is a diagram of a fit-over temple that at least partially fitsover a temple (e.g., temple and/or temple tip) according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 3D and 3E are diagrams of a temple arrangement according toanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 shows examples of different electrical components according tothe invention.

FIG. 5 is a chart that depicts examples of sensors suitable for useaccording to the invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a diagram of a number of different embodiments oftemple adapters according to the invention.

FIG. 7A is a diagram of a temple adapter according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 7B is a diagram of a temple adapter according to another embodimentof the invention.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are diagrams of a temple adapter according to anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9A is a diagram of a temple adapter according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIGS. 9B and 9C are diagrams of a temple adapter according to anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9D is a diagram of a temple adapter according to still anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 10A-10C are diagrams of a temple having a bone conducting elementaccording to still other embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 11 is perspective diagram of an apparatus having tetheredelectrical components according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12A is a block diagram of electrical components to be tethered to apair of eyeglasses according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12B is a block diagram of electrical components to be tethered to apair of eyeglasses according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12C shows an embodiment of the invention where a user is wearing apair of glasses, which include electrical components, such as a speaker.

FIGS. 13A-13D are diagrams of arrangements of a speaker and a microphoneprovided proximate to an arm of a frame of a pair of eyeglassesaccording to different embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 13E is a diagram of an arrangement of a speaker in a base thatprovides audio output in the vicinity of an arm of a frame of a pair ofeyeglasses according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14A is a diagram of an arrangement of an arm of a frame of a pairof eyeglasses and a cord of an apparatus having tethered electricalcomponents according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14B is a diagram of an arrangement of an arm for a frame of a pairof eyeglasses with electrical components according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 14C is a diagram of an arrangement of an arm for a frame of a pairof eyeglasses with electrical components according to another embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 15A is a diagram of a connection arrangement of an arm and a cordaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15B is a diagram of a connection arrangement of an arm and a cordaccording to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15C is a side view of the connection arrangement of FIG. 15Baccording to one embodiment of the invention when the connector and theconnector are coupled together.

FIG. 16 is a side view of an apparatus having electrical componentstethered to another device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a side view of an apparatus having tethered electricalcomponents according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a flow diagram of call processing using tethered wirelesscommunication components according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a flow diagram of operational condition processing usingtethered electrical components according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 20 is a flow diagram of sensor processing using tethered electricalcomponents according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 shows one embodiment of the invention with a speaker in one ofthe temples of the glasses.

FIG. 22 shows a tube extending from a speaker at a temple of the glassesto guide sound to one of the ears of the user according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23 shows a retractable tube extending from a speaker at a temple ofthe glasses according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 shows a funnel at the output of a speaker in the glassesaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 shows a male connector at the end of a temple according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 26A-26B illustrate a process to make a non-standard female plugcouple to a male connector at a pair of glasses according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27 illustrates another non-standard connector, applicable to clamponto a temple of a pair of glasses according to an embodiment of theinvention.

FIGS. 28A-28E shows different embodiments of standard connectors locatedat different positions on the temple of a pair of glasses according tothe invention.

FIGS. 28F-28H are diagrams pertaining to providing a removableelectronic device with an eyeglass frame according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 28I is a diagram of a temple of an eyeglass frame according toanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 shows some of the electrical components for a MP3 playeraccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30 shows an embodiment of the invention where a user is wearing apair of glasses with electrical components, tethered to a base, which isconnected to a portable device.

FIGS. 31A-31B show different embodiments of the present inventionillustrating some of the electrical components for wireless connectionsto a pair of glasses.

FIG. 32 shows a process for a personalized radio according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33 shows a number of attributes of control knobs according todifferent embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 34 shows some of the electrical components for capturing imageswith a pair of glasses according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 35 shows an operation of taking actions based on images capturedwith a pair of glasses with wireless transceiver capability according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 36 shows an operation to provide messages to a user based on imagescaptured by a pair of glasses according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 37A is a chart that depicts examples of sensors in a pair ofglasses according to different embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 37B is a diagram of a temple arrangement according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 37C is a diagram of a cover that at least partially covers a templeaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 37D is a diagram of a fit-over temple that at least partially fitsover a temple according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 38 shows an embodiment including an eye mask according to theinvention.

FIG. 39 shows an embodiment including a night cap according to theinvention.

FIG. 40A is a diagram illustrating a temple having a slot for receivinga removable electronic device according to one embodiment of theinvention

FIG. 40B is a diagram illustrating the temple having a recessed lowerportion according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 41A and 41B are diagrams illustrating a pair of glasses having acamera coupled thereto, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 42 shows one embodiment of the invention with a pair of glasseshaving speakers.

FIG. 43 shows a tube extending from a speaker at a temple of the glassesto guide sound to one of the ears of the user according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 44 shows a retractable tube extending from a speaker at one of thetemples of the glasses according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 45 shows a funnel at the output of a speaker in the glassesaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 46A-46B show an embodiment of the invention with a wire connectingspeakers in the glasses.

FIG. 47 shows one embodiment of the invention with a pair of glasseshaving speakers that are wirelessly coupled to a portable device.

FIGS. 48A-48B show different embodiments of the present inventionillustrating some of the electrical components for wireless connectionsto a pair of glasses.

FIG. 49 shows a male stereo connector at the end of a temple accordingto one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 50 illustrates a connector applicable to clamp onto a temple of apair of glasses according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 51 shows one embodiment of the invention with a pair of glasseshaving a microphone coupled to the wire connected to a portable device.

FIG. 52 shows different embodiments regarding frequency-dependentamplification of the present invention.

FIG. 53 shows a number of embodiments regarding hearing calibration ofthe present invention.

FIG. 54 shows a number of embodiments regarding power management of thepresent invention.

FIG. 55 shows different embodiments of sources of other audio signalsgenerated by the glasses according to the present invention.

FIG. 56 is a flow diagram of call processing according to one embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 57 shows some of the electrical components for an MP3 playeraccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 58 shows one embodiment of the invention that has a card withelectrical components coupled to a pair of glasses through a connectorat a temple of the glasses.

FIG. 59 shows a process for a personalized radio according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 60 shows a number of attributes of control knobs according todifferent embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 61A-61C illustrate different embodiments of power sources for apair of glasses according to the invention.

FIGS. 62A-62B show different embodiments of headset-to-phone cordsaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 63 shows an embodiment of the invention of a cord with a switch forboth a cell phone and a player.

FIG. 64 shows one embodiment of a mono-plugs-to-stereo-plug adapter cordaccording to the invention.

FIG. 65 shows an embodiment of the invention with a speaker at a templetip with an extension for attachment to a tube.

FIG. 66 shows an embodiment of the invention with the temples notextending behind the ears.

FIG. 67 shows an embodiment of the invention with a pair of eyeglassesfunctioning as a headset that has a camera, a microphone and a speaker.

FIG. 68 illustrates a pair of glasses according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 69 illustrates a temple according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 70 is a block diagram of a pedometer system according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 71A illustrates a first side of an electrical system moduleaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 71B illustrates a second side of the electrical system moduleillustrated in FIG. 71A.

FIG. 71C illustrates a side view of the electrical system moduleillustrated in FIG. 71A.

FIG. 71D illustrates a temple according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 72A illustrates representative output data for a pedometer system(pedometer) according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 72B illustrates representative input data for a pedometer system(pedometer) according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 73 is a flow diagram of a distance output process according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 74 is a chart that depicts examples of auxiliary sensors that canbe utilized with the eyewear.

FIG. 75 shows one embodiment of the invention with a speaker in one ofthe temples of a pair of glasses.

FIG. 76 shows a number of attributes regarding a number of applicationsof glasses according to different embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 77 shows some electrical components of a player according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 78 illustrates a number of forces activating a switch according toa number of embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 79 illustrates a number of mechanical forces activating a switchaccording to a number of embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 80 shows a Hall-effect detector at a joint of a pair of glassesaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 81A-81C illustrate different embodiments of a quadrature sensoraccording to the invention.

Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to theabove-noted figures. However, those skilled in the art will readilyappreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect tothese figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extendsbeyond these limited embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The invention pertains to techniques for providing eyewear withelectrical components. The electrical components can provide electricaltechnology to eyewear (e.g., eyeglasses) without having to substantiallycompromise aesthetic design principles of the eyewear. The electricalcomponents can operate independently or together with other electricalcomponents provided elsewhere. The eyewear with electronic componentscan, for example, provide audio output, audio enhancements, orevent-related audio content.

One aspect of the invention relates to temple arrangements for use witheyeglasses. According to this aspect, a temple arrangement includes oneor more electrical components. The one or more electrical components areattached to or at least partially embedded in the temple arrangement.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a temple adapter for use witheyeglasses. According to this aspect, a temple adapter includes one ormore electrical components that are able to be mechanically (andoptionally electrically) coupled to a temple (including a temple tip) ofthe eyeglasses.

The electrical components can support signal capturing, signalprocessing, signal transmission, signal display, signal storage and/orpower provision. The signals can be, for example, analog or digitalsignals. The electrical components can, for example, be used to provideaudio output and/or audio pick-up. The electrical components may includeand/or control one or more sensors to monitor and/or signal theconditions of a user of the eyewear. The electrical components may alsoinclude and/or control one or more operation indicators to signaloperational status of at least some other electrical components. Inaddition, the electrical components can be or pertain to a circuit boardor module, which includes a plurality of electrical components.

In one embodiment, the one or more electrical components support audiocapabilities allowing a user to hear audio output. In anotherembodiment, the one or more electrical components support communicationcapabilities allowing a user to communicate with a communication devicein a hands-free manner.

Embodiments of different aspects of the invention are discussed belowwith reference to FIGS. 1-81 (c). However, those skilled in the art willreadily appreciate that the detailed description given herein withrespect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the inventionextends beyond these limited embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pair of glasses 100 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The glasses 100 include a frame and a pairof lenses 102. The frame has lens holders 104 that hold the lenses 102in position. The frame also has a bridge 106. The glasses 100 furtherinclude a pair of temples (or arms) 108. The temples 108 are consideredpart of the frame. As shown in FIG. 1 , each of the temples 108 iscoupled to one of the lens holders 104 by a hinge 109. In oneembodiment, the temples 108 can be removed from the frame (e.g., at thehinge 109).

In addition, temple arrangements 110 are attached to the temples 108.Here, one or both of the temples 108 can include a temple arrangement110. A temple arrangement 110 can include one or more electricalcomponents 112. In one embodiment, the temple arrangements 110 can beconsidered separate parts that can be attached to respective temples108. Once attached, the temple arrangements 110 can be considered partof, or an extension to, the temples 108.

By having one or more electrical components 112 in one or more of thetemple arrangements 110, electrical capabilities can be provided to theglasses 100 without burdensome impact to the design of other parts ofthe frames. Moreover, by providing electrical components in one or moreof the temple arrangements 112, electrical capabilities can be added toeyeglasses in an after-market manner. Still further, by replacing templearrangements, a user could alter the electrical capabilities of hiseyeglasses.

In one embodiment, the glasses 100 do not have any other embeddedelectrical components, such as within the frame, except those in one orboth of the temple arrangements 112. In another embodiment, the glasses100 include one or more other electrical components embedded or attachedto the frame of the glasses 100 and the components are electricallycoupled to the one or more electrical components 112 in one or both ofthe temple arrangements 110.

In different embodiments, the glasses 100 can be, for example, a pair ofsunglasses, fit-over glasses, prescription glasses, reading glasses, orsafety glasses.

FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram of a number of different embodiments oftemple arrangements 200 according to the invention. A temple arrangement200 can be a temple tip, a temple fit-over, or a temple cover. In oneembodiment, a temple tip is a structure that attaches to a rearwardportion of a temple. In one embodiment, a temple tip can pertain to anenclosure that grabs onto a rearward portion of a temple. A temple tipis particularly common for wire frame eyeglass where the temple tipattaches to the rearward end of the temple and provides a surfacesuitable for positioning proximate to the user's ear. For example, FIG.1 illustrates the temple arrangement 112 implemented as a temple tip.

In one embodiment, a temple tip is removable from its correspondingtemple so that it can be replaced. The temple tip can be originallyprovided with the purchase of a pair of eyeglasses. Alternatively, thetemple tip can be a replacement part that can be purchased separatelyand subsequently mounted onto a rearward portion of a temple of a pairof eyeglasses after removing any original temple tip. In anotherembodiment, a temple tip is permanently held onto the correspondingtemple, for example, by an adhesive (e.g., epoxy, glue, etc.).

In one embodiment, a temple fit-over fits over at least a portion of therearward end of a temple. If the rearward end of the temple has a templetip, at least a portion of the temple tip can be fitted over by thetemple fit-over. In one embodiment, a temple cover slides over and atleast partially covers a portion of the rearward end of a temple. If therearward end of the temple has a temple tip, at least a portion of thetemple tip can be covered by the temple cover.

A temple cover is typically made of a material that is more flexiblethan a temple fit-over. For example, a temple cover can be made of afabric or other materials, such as a sock or sleeve; while a templefit-over can be made of plastic.

A temple arrangement 200 can be made of the same or different materialsthan the temple or other parts of the frame of the pair of eyeglasses.To illustrate, a pair of glasses with a metal frame can havenon-metallic temple tips. A temple arrangement 200 can be of a colorthat is the same as, or similar to, or different from, that of thetemple.

A temple arrangement 200 can be held onto a temple by frictional force.For example, if the temple arrangement 200 is a temple fit-over, it canbe held onto an existing temple or temple tip by frictional force. Here,the temple fit-over is often removable. In another embodiment, thetemple arrangement 200 can be permanently held onto its correspondingtemple or temple tip. For example, the temple arrangement can bepermanently held onto the corresponding temple or temple tip, forexample, by an adhesive (e.g., epoxy, glue, etc.).

Depending on applications, a temple arrangement can be of differentshapes. The shape can depend on the type of glasses. For example, atemple arrangement for fit-over glasses can be bigger than a templearrangement for prescription glasses. The shape of the templearrangement can also depend on applications for the electroniccomponent(s) that are fully or partially embedded in the templearrangement. Of course, aesthetic reasons can also influence shape(e.g., design, size, style) of a temple arrangement.

In one embodiment, the temple arrangement is a structure that has atleast one electrical component attached thereto or at least partiallyembedded therein. In another embodiment, all of the electricalcomponents to be provided with the temple arrangement are at leastpartially embedded in the temple arrangement.

FIG. 3A is a diagram of a portion 300 of a pair of eyeglasses accordingto one embodiment of the invention. The portion 300 includes a temple302 that is associated with a pair of eyeglasses. Over the end of thetemple 302 that is opposite the associated lens holder, a temple tip 304is provided. The temple tip 304 can, for example, be held to the temple302 by frictional forces and/or adhesive. The temple tip 304 includes atleast one electrical component 306 that is at least partially embeddedtherein. A wide range of functionalities can be provided by the at leastone electrical component 306. The temple tip 304 can be consideredseparate from or part of the temple 302. For example, when the templetip 304 is not attached to the temple 302, the temple tip 304 isconsidered a separate part. As another example, when the temple tip 304is attached to the temple 302, the temple tip 304 can be consideredseparate from or part of the temple 302.

The temple tip 304 can be manufactured and delivered to resellers orretailers and thereafter sold attached to eyeglasses. Alternatively, thetemple tip 304 can be separately provided as an optional replacementtemple tip for an original temple tip. Hence, after or during purchasinga pair of eyeglasses, upgrade of the eyeglasses can be had by replacingan existing temple tip with a replacement temple tip. The colors andshapes of the temple tip 304 can vary widely. In the after manufacturingenvironment, the reseller or retailer can be provided with a range ofdifferent colors and shapes so that a user can receive a replacementtemple tip that reasonably matches the color and shape of the temple orthat provides an altered appearance as desired by the user.

A number of embodiments have been described regarding one or moreelectrical components at least partially embedded in a pair of glasses.In one embodiment, one or more electrical components are at leastpartially embedded in a temple tip of a pair of glasses. Temple tips arerelatively common for wire or metal frames which have wire or metaltemples. The pair of glasses has a first and a second lens holders forreceiving lenses. Each of the lens holders has a first side and a secondside. The pair of glasses has a bridge element that couples the firstside of the first lens holder to the second side of the second lensholder. The pair of glasses also includes a first temple and a secondtemple. The first temple is pivotally secured to the second side of thefirst lens holder through a joint, while the second temple is pivotallysecured to the first side of the second lens holder through anotherjoint. A temple typically has two ends, a first end and a second end.The first end can be the end that is pivotally secured to a lens holderthrough a joint, and the second end can be the other end of the temple.It is not uncommon that a temple includes a main body and an enclosurethat grabs onto the main body of the temple. The second end is typicallywhere the enclosure grabs onto the main body. The enclosure can be madeof a different material than the main body of the temple. In oneembodiment, such an enclosure is a temple tip, and there is anelectrical component, partially or fully, embedded in the temple tip.There can also be a connector at the temple tip. In another embodiment,the temple tip can include a female connector. In still anotherembodiment, as a temple tip grabs onto the main body of the temple, aconnector at the temple tip (such as a female connector) can makeelectrical contact with another connector (such as a male connector) atthe main body of the temple. Typically, particularly before a pair ofglasses has been extensively worn, the temple tip can be removed andre-inserted back on to the main body of the temple without muchdifficulty. Such a temple tip can be an after-market component, withdifferent temple tips having different electrical components to servedifferent functions.

Besides a temple tip such as illustrated in FIG. 3A, a temple tip canalso be effectively modified by a fit-over temple or temple cover.

FIG. 3B is a diagram of a temple cover 320 that at least partiallycovers a temple (e.g., temple and/or temple tip) according to oneembodiment of the invention. As an example, the temple cover 320 can bemade of a fabric or other material, such as a sock or sleeve, thatslides over and at least partially covers a temple or a temple tip. Thetemple cover 320 can include at least one electrical component 322 thatis either attached thereto or at least partially embedded therein. Thetemple cover 320 can also include an opening 324 so as to receive atemple or a temple tip. In one embodiment, the temple cover 320 isplaced over a substantial portion of a temple tip, and the opening 324can extend to a far end 326 so as to receive all or a substantial partof the temple tip. The temple cover 320 can, for example, be held to atemple or a temple tip by frictional forces and/or adhesive.

FIG. 3C is a diagram of a fit-over temple 340 that at least partiallyfits over a temple (e.g., temple and/or temple tip) according to oneembodiment of the invention. For example, the fit-over temple 340 can atleast partially fit-over a temple tip. The fit-over temple 340 includesat least one electrical component 342 that is either attached thereto orat least partially embedded therein. The fit-over temple 340 can alsoinclude an opening 344 so as to receive a temple or a temple tip. Thedepth and/or width of the opening 344 within the fit-over temple 340 canvary depending on the extent to which it is being fit over a temple or atemple tip. The fit-over temple 340 can, for example, be held to atemple or temple tip by frictional forces and/or adhesive. As anexample, the fit-over temple 340 can be plastic or other material. Thecolors and shapes of the fit-over temple 340 can have a lot ofvariations.

A wide range of functionalities can be provided by the at least oneelectrical component (e.g., electrical component 322 and 342). In theafter manufacturing environment, the reseller or retailer can beprovided with a range of different colors and shapes so that a user canreceive a replacement temple cover or fit-over temple that reasonablymatches the color and shape of the temple or that provides an alteredappearance as desired by the user.

FIGS. 3D and 3E are diagrams of a temple arrangement 360 according toanother embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3D is a side view of thetemple arrangement 360, and FIG. 3E is a front view of the templearrangement 360. In this embodiment, the temple arrangement 360 is atemple tip that can be attached to a temple (e.g., temple body) of apair of eyeglasses. The temple arrangement 360 includes a speakerhousing 362 allowing a speaker 364 to be at least partially embeddedwithin the temple arrangement 360. An audio sound output by the speaker364 is coupled to an ear plug 366 by way of the speaker housing 362 anda tube 368. Typically, the tube 368 is a flexible tube, such as aflexible plastic tube. A user of the eyeglasses having the templearrangement 360 can place the ear plug 366 within her ear to facilitatecoupling of the audio sound from the speaker 364 to the ear. The tube368 can have a disconnection region 370 whereby at least a section ofthe tube 368 and the attached ear plug 366 can be removed from thetemple arrangement 360, such as when audio output is not being listenedto. The tube 368 and/or the speaker housing 362 can also be capable ofrotating with respect to the temple arrangement 360 to facilitate easeof use. Still further, the temple arrangement 360 can include aconnector 372, such as a male audio connector (e.g., 2.5 mm, stereomini-phone connector). The connector 372 provides a means toelectrically connect an external audio source to the speaker 364 withinthe temple arrangement 360. For example, at least one wire (not shown)that is internal to the temple arrangement 360 can be used toelectrically connect the speaker 364 to the connector 372.

In one embodiment, an electrical component is a component of anelectrical circuit or system, and the electrical circuit or system isfor performing at least a desired, intended or predetermined function.

In one embodiment, a temple tip, fit-over temple or temple coveraccording to the invention can further include a connector or cable tofacilitate electrical connection with the at least one electricalcomponent that is either attached to a temple or a temple tip or atleast partially embedded therein.

FIG. 4 shows examples of different electrical components according tothe present invention. Different embodiments of temple arrangements ortemple adapters according to the invention can use one or more of thesedifferent electrical components.

In one embodiment, the electrical component is an electrical connector.The connector can be a male connector located at a temple tip. Inanother embodiment, the connector can be a female connector at a templetip. For example, as a temple tip grabs onto the main body of itscorresponding temple, a female connector at the temple tip can makeelectrical contact with a male connector at the temple. Examples ofdifferent types of connectors have previously been described in therelated patent applications, which have been incorporated by reference.

In one embodiment, the embedded electrical component is an electricalswitch, such as one or more of those previously described in the relatedpatent applications, which have been incorporated by reference.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can be a power source. Thepower source can be a battery, a solar cell or other type of powersource.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can include a circuit board.The circuit board can be a rigid or a flexible circuit board.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can be an indicator. Theindicator can be audio, visual, or physical (e.g., vibration). Forexample, the indicator can signal an event or condition to a user of theglasses.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can be a display, such as aLCD display.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can be a speaker. Thespeaker can provide an audio output for the benefit of the wearer of theglasses. The speaker can directly transmit sound to a user, such as aspeaker mounted on an exterior surface of an eyeglass frame, orpartially or fully embedded in an eyeglass frame, or a bone conductingtype of speaker. Alternatively, the speaker can indirectly transmitsound to a user, such as through the use of a tube to deliver audiooutput proximate to a user's ear.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can be a controller. Thecontroller can, for example, be a microprocessor.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can be a memory device. Thememory device can be non-volatile memory, such as FLASH memory. The datastored in the memory device can be user data or data provided by otherelectrical components.

In one embodiment, one electrical component is a frequency receiver or afrequency transmitter. They can be in the radio frequency range.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can be a sensor. The sensorcan be a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can be used to sensethe temperature of the wearer. In one embodiment, such a temperaturesensor is in a temple tip. In measuring the temperature, the user canfurther press the temple tip towards his head to ensure betterconnection. One can also put the temple under one's tongue to measurebody temperature.

In other different embodiments, one electrical component can be a motiondetector, a speed sensor, a rate of ascent (or descent) detector, apressure detector, or a detector for radiation, such as an ultraviolet(UV) detector.

In one embodiment, one electrical component is a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) tag. A RFID tag typically includes a memory chipand a radio antenna. The memory chip usually has a small storagecapacity and thus does not include a large amount of information. Aportion of such information can provide identifying information for theglasses. The memory chip may only have a few kilobytes, sufficient toencode information, such as a serial number, where and when the product(such as eyeglasses) was manufactured, and other relevant information.

The RFID tags can come in a number of configurations. For example, anactive tag uses a battery-powered transponder to constantly emit signalswhich can carry information programmed into the memory chip. Active tagsare more applicable to situations where readers are not close to thetags. A semi-passive tag likewise has a battery, but may not beactivated until it receives a signal from a reader. They are moreapplicable to situations that do not need continuous connection andaccessing. A passive tag has no battery; its antenna extracts power froma reader's radio wave signal to transmit the identifying information.Passive tags are typically relatively inexpensive, but may have to bewithin a few feet of a reader to extract power. The electrical componentcan be a passive RFID tag, or some other type of tag.

In one embodiment, one electrical component can be for locating thecorresponding glasses. For example, the electrical component can producea beeping tone when it receives a specific radio signal. A handhelddevice (such as a key chain accessory, can generate the specific radiosignal (e.g., when a button is pushed). Through the beeping tone, onecan locate the glasses.

As noted above, in one embodiment, the electrical component can be asensor. More generally, a pair of glasses can include one or moresensors that can be used individually or in combination. FIG. 5 is achart 500 that depicts examples of sensors suitable for use in orattached to the glasses.

In one embodiment, the sensor is a “being worn” sensor. The “being worn”sensor indicates whether the glasses are being worn by its user. The“being worn” operation can be performed using, for example, a thermalsensor, a motion detector, a stress sensor or a switch.

In one embodiment, a motion detector is used as a “being worn” sensor. Athreshold can be set, such that if the amount of motion exceeds thethreshold, the glasses are assumed to be worn. The motion detector can,for example, be achieved by a mechanical mechanism or an accelerometer.

In another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor includes two thermalsensors. One sensor can be at approximately the middle of a temple, suchas in a region that touches the head of the user wearing the glasses.The other sensor can be at one end of the temple, the end that is closeto its hinge. If the temperature differential between the two sensors isbeyond a certain preset value, the glasses would be assumed to be worn.The differential is presumed to be caused by a person wearing the pairof glasses.

In yet another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor includes a stresssensor at the hinge of the temple. The assumption is that when theeyewear is worn, the hinge is typically slightly stretched becausetypically, the width of the head of the user is slightly wider than thewidth between the temples when the two temples are in the extendedpositions. If the value of the stress sensor is beyond a certain presetvalue, the glasses would be assumed to be worn.

In a further embodiment, the “being worn” sensor can be a switch. Forexample, at the hinge between a temple and its corresponding lensholder, there is a switch. When that temple is in its extended position,i.e., fully extended outwards, the switch is turned on. The switch canbe a pin-type switch. When the temple is fully extended outwards, thepin is pressed. When both temples are fully extended outwards, in oneembodiment, the glasses would be assumed to be worn by the user.

In one embodiment, another type of sensor is an environmental sensor.The environmental sensor can sense environmental conditions, such as oneor more of radiation (e.g., ultraviolet radiation or light), temperature(e.g., ambient temperature), pressure, humidity and toxins (e.g.,chemicals, etc.).

In another embodiment, another type of sensor is a condition sensor. Thecondition sensor can sense the conditions of the user of the glasses.Examples of condition sensors include sensing one or more of distancetraveled, location, speed, calories consumed, temperature and vitalsigns associated with the user of the glasses. The distance traveledcould represent the horizontal distance traveled or the verticaldistance (i.e., elevation) traveled. The speed can be the rate ofmovement along the horizontal distance traveled and/or the verticaldistance. In yet another embodiment, the condition sensor can indirectlysense emotional conditions of the user of the glasses.

The sensors can be provided in a redundant or fault-tolerant manner. Forexample, sensors can come in pairs in the glasses. When onemalfunctions, the other one will take over its operation. In anotherembodiment, the sensor information can be processed in a differentialmanner to examine changes to the sensor information. The differentialcan be based on time. The sensors can by powered by a battery, solarenergy, or kinetic energy. For reduced power consumption, the sensorscan remain in a low-power state unless data is being acquired by thesensors. In yet another embodiment, two or more of the sensors cancommunicate with one another (wired or wirelessly) to exchange data orcontrol information.

FIG. 6 illustrates a diagram of a number of different embodiments oftemple adapters 600 according to the invention. The temple adapters 600serve to adapt a temple (i.e., a temple body or temple tip) of a pair ofeyeglasses to provide for at least one electrical component. In oneembodiment, a temple adapter can clip onto a temple body or a templetip. In another embodiment, a temple adapter can mount to a postprovided on a temple body or a temple tip. In still another embodiment,a temple adapter can mount to a hole provided in a temple body or atemple tip. In yet another embodiment, a temple adapter can be bonded(or adhered) to a temple body or a temple tip.

The temple adapter is particularly well suited to adapt a pair ofeyeglasses with communication components, such as a speaker and/or amicrophone. As an example, a standard pair of eyeglasses can betransformed into an operational headset by attaching a temple adapter toa temple body or temple tip of the pair of eyeglasses, wherein thetemple adapter includes at least one speaker and at least onemicrophone.

The temple adapter can be rigid or malleable. The benefit of beingmalleable is that the particular geometric arrangement/assembly of thetemple adapter can be altered by its user for better user comfort oroperation.

In one embodiment, the temple adapter is a structure that has at leastone electrical component attached thereto or at least partially embeddedtherein. In another embodiment, all of the electrical components to beprovided with the temple adapter are at least partially embedded in thetemple adapter.

FIG. 7A is a diagram of a temple adapter 700 according to one embodimentof the invention. The temple adapter 700 attaches to a temple 702(including any temple tip using a clip 704. The clip 704 can use force,such as an interference fit force or spring-induced force, to attach thetemple adapter 700 to the temple 702. Besides the clip 704, the templeadapter 700 includes an angled arm 706 and an ear bud 708. The angledarm 706 can be malleable. When a pair of eyeglasses associated with thetemple 702 is being worn by a user, the ear bud 708 can be placed in ornear the user's ear canal. The ear bud 708 contains a speaker andreceives electrical signals via a wire, such wire can be providedinternal or external to the temple adapter 700 and can originate at thetemple 702 or external to the temple 702.

FIG. 7B is a diagram of a temple adapter 720 according to anotherembodiment of the invention. The temple adapter 720 attaches to a temple722 (including any temple tip) using a clip 724. The clip 724 can useforce, such as an interference fit force or spring-induced force, tohold the temple adapter 720 to the temple 722. Besides the clip 724, thetemple adapter 720 includes an angled arm 726, an ear bud 728, amicrophone 730, an extension arm 732 and a cord 734. In this embodiment,the cord 734 includes a wire that connects to the speaker within the earbud 728 and another wire that connects to the microphone 730. There canbe one or more conductors inside a given wire. For example, a wire mighthave one conductor serving as a signal line and another conductorserving as ground. Such wires can be provided internal to the extensionarm 732 and the angled arm 726. The arm 732 can serve to guide the cord734 away from the user's ear or rearward. The angled arm 726 can bemalleable. The placement or position of the microphone 730 can vary withimplementation. As shown in FIG. 7B, the microphone 730 is directedforward to a user's front when a pair of eyeglasses associated with thetemple 722 are being worn. Alternatively, the microphone 730 could bedirected outward away from the user's head when the pair of eyeglassesare being worn. When a pair of eyeglasses associated with the temple 722is being worn by a user, the ear bud 728 can be placed in or near theuser's ear canal. The ear bud 728 contains a speaker and receiveselectrical signals via a wire of the cord 734. The cord 734 can haveanother end (not shown) with a connector for coupling with an audiooutput device (e.g., radio, MP3 player) or a communication device (e.g.,mobile phone).

FIGS. 8A and 8B are diagrams of a temple adapter 800 according toanother embodiment of the invention. FIG. 8A is a side view of thetemple adapter 800, and FIG. 8B is a front view of the temple adapter800. The temple adapter 800 has a support body 802 which has a supportarm 803. An ear bud 804 is attached to an end of the support arm 803. Aconnector 806, such as a male audio connector, is attached to one end ofthe support body 802. A microphone 808 can be optionally provided andattached to the support body 802 or the support arm 803. Additionally,an elastic member 810 can be provided to facilitate attachment of thesupport body 802 to a temple 812 of a pair of eyeglasses. The temple 812can have a tip region 814, which can be referred to as a temple tip.When the temple adapter 800 is attached to the tip region 814 of thetemple 812, the tip region 814 is placed in or through an opening 816 inthe elastic member 810, as shown, for example, in FIG. 8B. The templeadapter 800 is thereby held in place relative to the tip region 814.Additionally, although not shown, the support body 802 would carry afirst internal wire from the connector 806 to the microphone 808, andthe support body 802 and the support arm 803 would carry a secondinternal wire from the connector 806 to the ear bud 804.

FIG. 9A is a diagram of a temple adapter 900 according to anotherembodiment of the invention. In FIG. 9A, a side-view of the templeadapter 900 is depicted. The temple adapter 900 attaches to a temple 902of a pair of eyeglasses. The temple 902 can have a tip region 904, whichcan be referred to as a temple tip. The temple adapter 900 has a supportmember 906. A first end 908 of the support member 906 couples to thetemple 902 of a pair of eyeglasses. In one embodiment, the first end 908serves to attach the temple adapter 900 to the temple 902. For example,the first end 908 can provide a clip, clamp, post, or hole to provide orassist with the attachment. As another example, the first end 908 canalternatively or additionally use an adhesive, bonding or fastener(e.g., hook and loop system, e.g., Velcro) to provide or assist with theattachment. A second end 910 of the support member 906 provides anopening through which an arm 912 extends. One end of the arm 912 has anear bud 914 attached thereto. The arm 912 can be angled and/ormalleable. When a pair of eyeglasses associated with the temple 902 isbeing worn by a user, the ear bud 914 can be placed in or near theuser's ear canal. The ear bud 914 contains a speaker and receiveselectrical signals via a wire, such wire can be provided internal orexternal to the temple adapter 900 and can originate at the temple 902or external to the temple 902.

FIGS. 9B and 9C are diagrams of a temple adapter 920 according to stillanother embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9B is a side view of thetemple adapter 920, and FIG. 9C is a front view of the temple adapter920. The temple adapter 920 attaches to a temple 922 of a pair ofeyeglasses. The temple 922 can have a tip region 924, which can bereferred to as a temple tip. The temple adapter 920 has a support member926. A first end 928 of the support member 926 couples to the temple 922of a pair of eyeglasses. In one embodiment, the first end 928 serves toattach the temple adapter 920 to the temple 922. For example, the firstend 928 can provide a clip, clamp, post, or hole to provide or assistwith the attachment. As another example, the first end 928 canalternatively or additionally use an adhesive, bonding or fastener(e.g., hook and loop system, e.g., Velcro) to provide or assist with theattachment. The first end 928 also has a bracket 930 having a connector932 at one end, and an elastic member 934 for coupling about the tipregion 924. The connector 932, such as a male audio connector, isattached to one end of the bracket 930. A microphone 936 can beoptionally provided and, for example, attached to the support body 926.

A second end 938 of the support member 926 provides an opening throughwhich an arm 940 extends. One end of the arm 940 has an ear bud 942attached thereto. The arm 940 can be angled and/or malleable. The arm940 is also re-positionable within the opening at the second end 938 soas to permit user adjustment. When a pair of eyeglasses associated withthe temple 922 is being worn by a user, the ear bud 942 can be placed inor near the user's ear canal. The ear bud 942 contains a speaker andreceives electrical signals via a wire, such wire can be providedinternal or external to the temple adapter 920 and can originate at thetemple 902 or external to the temple 902. In this embodiment, a wire 944is shown as passing through the arm 940 to provide signals to thespeaker within the ear bud 942. More particularly, in one embodiment,although not shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, a first wire would connect thespeaker within the ear bud 942 to the connector 932 (e.g., wire 944),and a second wire would connect the microphone 936 to the connector 932.Such wires can be internal or external, or partially internal andpartially external, to the temple adapter 920.

FIG. 9D is a diagram of a temple adapter 960 according to still anotherembodiment of the invention. In FIG. 9D, a side-view of the templeadapter 960 is depicted. The temple adapter 960 attaches to a temple 962of a pair of eyeglasses. The temple 962 can have a tip region 964, whichcan be referred to as a temple tip. The temple adapter 900 has a supportmember 966. A first end 968 of the support member 966 couples to thetemple 962 of a pair of eyeglasses. In one embodiment, the first end 968serves to attach the temple adapter 960 to the temple 962. For example,the first end 968 can provide a clip, clamp, post, or hole to provide orassist with the attachment. As another example, the first end 968 canalternatively or additionally use an adhesive, bonding or fastener(e.g., hook and loop system, e.g., Velcro) to provide or assist with theattachment. A second end 970 of the support member 906 provides anopening through which an arm 972 extends. One end of the arm 972 has anear bud 974 attached thereto. The arm 972 can be angled and/ormalleable. When a pair of eyeglasses associated with the temple 962 isbeing worn by a user, the ear bud 974 can be placed in or near theuser's ear canal. The ear bud 974 contains a speaker and receiveselectrical signals via a wire, such wire can be provided internal orexternal to the temple adapter 960 and can originate at the temple 962or external to the temple 962. Further, the temple adapter 960 caninclude a microphone 976. In this embodiment, the microphone 976 isattached to the support member 966. In addition, an arm 978 is used tosupport an end of a cable 980 that is coupled to the arm 978. The cable980 can include at least one wire for the microphone 976 and one wirefor the speaker within the ear bud 974.

To the extent that any of the embodiments of the temple adaptersdiscussed above use a microphone, a tube can be optionally attached tothe microphone to facilitate voice pick-up of the user. One end of thetube can be placed over the microphone, and the other end of the tube isthen positioned closer to the user's mouth than is the microphone. Witha temple adapter on both temples, each providing a microphone andspeaker to a pair of eyeglasses, only one temple adapter would typicallymake use of such a tube. Alternatively, the tube and the microphonecould be replaced by a boom microphone.

FIG. 10A-10C are diagrams of a temple having a bone conducting elementaccording to still other embodiments of the invention. The boneconducting elements can replace a traditional speaker to provide audiooutput to a user. Although not shown, electrical signals would beinternally or externally supplied to the bone conducting element.

FIG. 10A illustrates a temple 1000 for a pair of eyeglasses. The temple1000 includes a bone conducting element 1002 that can provide audiosound to a user by coupling vibrations to at least one bone of theuser's face. The bone conducting element 1002 is held relative to thetemple 1000 by an arm 1004. Hence, in this embodiment, the temple 1000,the arm 1004 and the bone conducting element 1002 can all be integrallyformed.

FIG. 10B illustrates a temple 1020 for a pair of eyeglasses. The temple1020 includes a bone conducting element 1022 that can provide audiosound to a user by coupling vibrations to at least one bone of theuser's face. The bone conducting element 1022 is held relative to thetemple 1020 by a support 1024 that removably attaches to the temple1020.

FIG. 10C illustrates a temple 1040 for a pair of eyeglasses. The temple1040 includes a bone conducting element 1042 that can provide audiosound to a user by coupling vibrations to at least one bone of theuser's head. In this embodiment, the bone conducting element 1042 ispositioned in the vicinity of the user's ear, such as behind the user'sear. The placement of the bone conducting element 1042 in thisembodiment can reduce impact to the design of the eyeglasses.

In one embodiment, the electrical components associated with a templearrangement or a temple adapter is for enhancing the hearing of theperson wearing the corresponding pair of glasses. There can be at leasta microphone and a speaker in a temple arrangement or a temple adapter.The microphone can be close to an ear of the user when the glasses areworn by the user, and can be a directional microphone. The microphonescan be a microphone in a temple adapter, such as the microphone 730 inFIG. 7B, 808 in FIG. 8A, 936 in FIG. 9B, or 976 in FIG. 9D. Themicrophones can be in a temple arrangement. The microphone in a templearrangement can be attached to a temple tip, a temple fit-over or atemple cover. The microphones can be positioned to be in front of theuser's ears so that the microphones will not be affected by theshadowing effect of the ears. The speaker can be inserted into the ear,as in some of the speakers previously described.

In another embodiment, there are two sets of microphones and speakers,such as in two temple arrangements or temple adapters. In the vicinityof each ear, there is a temple arrangement or temple adapter with itscorresponding microphone and speaker. The microphones again can bedirectional, one pointing generally outwards in a position close to theleft ear, and one pointing generally outwards in a position close to theright ear. Alternatively, the microphones can point forward.

The microphone and the speaker close to an ear do not have to be in veryclose proximity to each other, as in many hearing aids existingnowadays. They can be spaced apart by, such as, one to several inches,with the microphone being directional and pointing to the front and toeither the left or the right of the user, and with the speaker pointingtoward or inserted into the corresponding ear of the user. Such adistance apart can significantly reduce feedback effect of existinghearing aids. Another advantage of such a hearing enhancement device isthat users may not need to be fitted into ears with ear molds. In anycase, additional details on hearing enhancement are further described inthe related applications that have been incorporated herein byreference, such as U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/620,238,filed Oct. 18, 2004, and entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH HEARING ENHANCED ANDOTHER AUDIO SIGNAL-GENERATING CAPABILITIES.”

The various embodiments of the invention noted above, whether templearrangement or temple adapter, can have a cable or cord attached orattachable thereto. The cable or cord has one or more conductors. Thecable or cord can serve to provide electrical signals to or receiveelectrical signals from the temple arrangement or the temple adapter. Inone embodiment, one end of a cable or cord attaches to a templearrangement or temple adapter (either permanently or via a connector)and the other end of the cable or cord attaches (either permanently orvia a connector) to an electronic device. As an example, the electronicdevice can be an audio output device (e.g., audio player) or acommunication device (e.g., mobile telephone). In a first example, thecable or cord could provide a male audio (stereo) connector at one end,and a pair of female audio connectors at the opposite end, each beingfor use with a different temple. In a second example, the cable or cordcould provide a set of connectors, such as a male mini-phone connector(2.5 mm) and a male audio (stereo) connector, at one end, and one or apair of female phone connectors at the opposite end.

In one embodiment, the cable or cord can also have a switch coupledthereto so as to permit a user to switch modes. For example, if thetemple arrangement or temple adapter provides a speaker and microphoneto a pair of eyeglasses, a switch on a cable or cord that connects thetemple arrangement or temple adapter to an electronic device couldprovide different switch positions for different electronic devices ordifferent functional modes of operation of a single electronic device.As an example, if the electronic device is (or operates as) an audioplayer, a first switch position could be used. Alternatively, if theelectronic device is (or operates as) a mobile telephone, a secondswitch position could be used. Additional discussion of suitable cablesand cords is provided in the related applications that have beenincorporated herein by reference.

Electrical components can form an electronic module. The electronicmodule can provide radiation monitoring, wireless communication,enhanced hearing, etc. A radiation monitoring system can be partially orfully contained in a temple arrangement or temple adapter associatedwith a temple of a pair of glasses. Typically, the temple arrangement ortemple adapter can be removable from the temple.

In another embodiment, an electronic component in a temple arrangementor temple adapter interacts with another electronic component in anotherpart (e.g., frame) of the glasses or in a device tethered to theglasses. For example, a temple of a pair of glasses holds one portion ofan electronic circuit. That portion can include generic parts, such as abattery, that are applicable to different applications. Another portionof the electronic circuit is in a temple arrangement or temple adapter.This portion can be application specific, such as an electronic clockwithout a battery, or a temperature sensor.

In yet another embodiment, the electrical components can provide audioplayer capabilities. In such an embodiment, the electrical componentscan include audio file storage, an audio player and a battery. Theelectrical components may or may not include wireless communicationcircuitry.

Further, in an alternative embodiment, the output of an operationindicator can be audio. The audio output can be from one or morespeakers associated with the frame of the eyeglasses. Such audio outputcan signal the user using natural language, voice synthesis,pre-recorded messages, etc.

In another embodiment, the electrical components can include a memorymodule. The memory module provides non-volatile data storage. Forexample, the memory module can be a portable (or removable) memorydevice (e.g., memory card). The memory module can, for example, storesensor information (which can be over an extended period of time). Suchmemory module can be remotely interrogated using wireless communicationcircuitry, or can be accessed through a wired connection with a tethereddevice.

In one embodiment, the electrical connection(s) can alternatively beused to allow information stored in the electrical components to beaccessed or queried by a device. For example, when the electricalcomponents include a memory module, the memory module can be accessed toread data (e.g., status information) stored therein.

As previously noted, the electrical components associated with a templearrangement and/or a temple adapter can pertain to radiation monitoringcircuitry. In such case, the electrical components within the templearrangement or temple adapter alone or together with eyeglass electricalcomponents can implement a radiation monitoring system. The radiationbeing monitored can, for example, pertain to one or more of UV, infraredand gamma radiation. In one embodiment, sunlight is considered as a typeof radiation. In any case, additional details on radiation monitoringare further described in the related applications that have beenincorporated herein by reference.

Also, the electrical components can pertain to health or fitnessmonitoring circuitry. In such case, the electrical components within thetemple arrangement or the temple adapter alone or together with eyeglasselectrical components can implement a health or fitness monitoringsystem. Additional details on health or fitness monitoring are furtherdescribed in the related applications that have been incorporated hereinby reference.

In yet another embodiment, an electronic component in a templearrangement or a temple adapter of a frame of eyeglasses interacts withan electronic component of an apparatus tethered to the eyeglasses toperform an operation. For example, a temple arrangement or a templeadapter of a pair of eyeglasses holds one portion of an electronicsystem, and a tethered apparatus that tethers to the pair of eyeglassesincludes another portion of the electronic system.

Power (e.g., external power source) can be coupled to the glassesthrough a connector. In one embodiment, a power source is embeddedinside or inserted into the glasses. Different types of power sourcesare applicable. For example, the power source can be a battery, a fuelcell, a solar cell, or a re-chargeable battery. The rechargeable batterycan be charged through a connector at the glasses.

Depending on the embodiment, electrical components of a camera can be ina pair of glasses, and/or a base tethered to the glasses, and/or aportable device tethered to the glasses or to the base. For example,memory can be in the base tethered to the glasses. The location of alens can vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, onelocation is at the bridge of the glasses, with the lens of the camerafacing forward. In this situation, what the user sees is substantiallywhat the captured image would be. In other words, in a general sense,what the user sees is what the user gets. With such an embodiment, it isrelatively easy for a user to take pictures, hands-free. In anotherembodiment, another location for the lens are at a side portion adjacentto a lens holder, before the joint of the corresponding temple. Again,the lens of the camera faces forward. Some of the electrical componentsof the camera can be in that location, and other components in thetemple. These components can be electrically connected through one ofthe joints, such as with a flexible pc board. In yet another embodiment,the lens can face sideways and outwards in a temple of a pair ofglasses, towards the left or right side of the user.

Still further, the invention can provide a new approach to marketingaccessories, namely, electrical accessories, for eyewear. According toone method for providing temple arrangements and/or temple adapters foruse with a pair of glasses, the method can initially provide a pluralityof temple arrangements and/or temple adapters for a customer. Thisenables the customer to browse and select at least one templearrangement or temple adapter. Each of the temple arrangements or templeadapters can have one or more electrical components at least partiallyembedded therein, with different temple arrangements or temple adaptersproviding different electrical capabilities. Once a temple arrangementor temple adapters has been selected, the selected temple arrangement ortemple adapters can be coupled to one of the corresponding temples ofthe eyewear (e.g., a pair of glasses). In the case where the selectedtemple arrangement is a temple tip, the selected temple tip is insertedonto (e.g., slid over) an end of the corresponding temple (afterremoving any previously installed temple tip if there was one). In thecase where the selected temple adapter is to be coupled, the selectedtemple adapter can be attached to the corresponding temple. Thereafter,the customer can make use of the eyewear with its associated electricalcapabilities provided by the temple arrangement or temple adapters.

In one embodiment, once a temple arrangement and/or a temple adapter isprovided to a customer, the customer can test the electricalcapabilities of the pair of glasses. If the customer does not like thecurrent selected temple arrangement or temple adapter, the customer canrepeat the process by selecting and testing another temple arrangementor temple adapter. Before providing the eyewear with the templearrangement or temple adapter, the customer can be required to pay apurchase (or rental) price for at least the temple arrangement or thetemple adapter. Thereafter, the customer can be permitted to return andreplace the temple arrangement or temple adapter with another templearrangement or temple adapter. Such returns or replacements can beavailable only for a limited period of time following their purchase.

The eyewear can contain lenses, either vision corrective lenses ornon-corrective lenses. Examples of eyewear using corrective lensesinclude, for example, prescription glasses, bi-focal glasses, readingglasses, driving glasses, and progressive glasses. Examples of eyewear,using corrective or non-corrective lenses, are sunglasses, fit-overglasses, safety glasses, sports glasses, swim masks or goggles and skigoggles. The eyewear can also include wrap-around glasses (withwrap-around lenses), fit-over glasses, or auxiliary frames (which attachto existing frames). Still further, the eyewear can include a strap forglasses, such as a strap to hold glasses on one's head. The strap caninclude some or all of the components for monitoring radiation, suchcomponents can be attached or at least partially embedded in the strap.

The invention can also relate to tethered electrical components foreyeglasses. According to a number of embodiments of the invention, anapparatus having one or more external electrical components can betethered, through a tethering mechanism, to one or more electricalcomponents within or attached to a pair of eyeglasses. The one or moreexternal electrical components being tethered by the tetheringmechanism, such as a cable or a cord, may be referred to herein as the‘tethered electrical components.’ While the one or more electricalcomponents in or attached to the glasses can be referred to herein as‘eyeglass electrical components.’

Tethered electrical components, alone or in combination with eyeglasselectrical components can be used for a variety of differentapplications and uses. Examples of applications and uses include awireless communication system, a radiation monitoring system, a healthmonitoring system or a fitness monitoring system. In one embodiment, thetethered electrical components can support wireless communicationcapabilities allowing a user to communicate with a communication devicein a wireless and hands-free manner. In another embodiment, the tetheredelectrical components can support radiation monitoring such as formonitoring ultraviolet or solar radiation for a wearer of eyeglasses. Instill other embodiments, the tethered electrical components can supporthealth or fitness monitoring for a wearer of eyeglasses.

The tethered electrical components can support signal capturing, signalprocessing, signal transmission, data acquisition, data processing,and/or data storage. For example, the tethered electrical componentscan, for example, include a power source and/or an electroniccontroller. The tethered electrical components may also include and/orcontrol one or more operation indicators to signal operational status ofthe tethered electrical components. In addition, the tethered electricalcomponents may also include and/or control one or more sensors tomonitor and/or signal conditions of users.

FIG. 11 is a perspective diagram of an apparatus 1100 having tetheredelectrical components according to one embodiment of the invention. Theapparatus 1100 is capable of affixing to a pair of eyeglasses 1102. Theeyeglasses 1102 have a frame 1104 that supports a pair of lenses 1106.The frame 1104 typically also includes a pair of arms 1108. The arms1108 are also known as temples. When the eyeglasses 1102 are being wornby a user, the arms 1108 are placed about the user's head and supportedby the user's ears so as to stably hold the eyeglasses 1102 on theuser's head.

In one embodiment, the apparatus 1100 include a base 1110 and at leastone pair of cords 1112. Typically, there is a pair of cords 1112. Thebase 1110 contains electrical components. The cords 1112 can couple tothe base 1110 and can also couple to the arms 1108 of the eyeglasses1102. With the cords 1112 coupled to the arms 1108 of the glasses 1102,the cords 1112 can also permit the eyeglasses 1102 to dangle about theuser's neck. At least one of the cords 1112 contains an electricalconductor to carry electrical signals from the base 1110 and through theat least one of the cords 1112. As shown in FIG. 11 , the cords 1112 canconnect to the arms 1108 of the eyeglasses 1102; hence, the electricalconductor can carry electrical signals between the base 1110 and atleast one of the arms 1108 of the glasses 1102. The electrical conductorcould be a shielded conductive wire provided internal to at least one ofthe cords 1112.

When referring to the cords 1112, it should be understood that the cordscan be (i) two separate cords that each extends from the base 1110 toone of the arms 1108 of the eyeglasses 1102 (see FIG. 11 ), or (ii) asingle cord that extends from the base 1110 and then separates into twoends that couple to the arms 1108 of the eyeglasses 1102. The cords 1112can be made of a variety of different materials and may contain at leastone electrical conductor. For example, the cords 1112 can be made ofplastic, string, fabric, wire, etc.

In one embodiment, instead of two separate pieces, the cords areconnected together and form a continuous piece. The continuous piece canbe a strap, like an electric strap. One example of a strap is a sportsstrap that snugly attaches eyeglasses to a user's head, often for sportactivities. The two ends of the strap are coupled to the arms of theglasses. The coupling can be based on mechanical connectors (e.g.,snaps, clips), part of which may be integral with the arms of theglasses, and the other part integral with the straps. The coupling canbe on the temples, and located close to their corresponding lensholders.

In general, the cord(s) can also be referred to as a lanyard. In oneembodiment, the base is removably attached to the cord(s). In anotherembodiment, the base can be integral with the cord(s).

The electrical components within the base 1110 can vary in differentembodiments. In one embodiment, the electrical components pertain towireless communication circuitry, an antenna and/or a battery. Inanother embodiment, the electrical component pertains to radiationmonitoring circuitry. In still another embodiment, the electricalcomponent pertains to health or fitness monitoring.

FIG. 12A is a block diagram of electrical components 1200 according toone embodiment of the invention. The electrical components 1200 are, forexample, suitable for use as the electrical components for the base 1110of FIG. 11 . The electrical components 1200 include base electricalcircuitry 1202 and a power source 1204. The power source 1204 can, forexample, be at least one battery (rechargeable or non-rechargeable)and/or at least one solar cell. In another embodiment, the power sourceis not in the base but instead in at least one of the cords, theeyeglass frame, or other electronic device that can electrically coupleto the base. The base electrical circuitry 1202 varies with applicationand/or implementation. For example, the base electrical circuitry 1202can include one or more of: controller, memory, communication interface,I/O port, sensor, output device (e.g., display), switch, and connectorport.

The base electrical circuitry 1202 can also provide a link 1206 to otherelectrical circuitry in a wired or wireless manner. The wiredinteraction can utilize a cord coupled to an eyeglass frame, or can usea cable coupled to a portable electronic device. The wirelessinteraction can utilize different types of frequencies, such as radiofrequencies, infrared frequencies or optical frequencies. The otherelectrical circuitry can, for example, be (i) within an eyeglass frame(e.g., coupled via a cord), (ii) worn by a user, (iii) within a portableelectronic device (e.g., mobile telephone, media player, camera), or(iv) within a remote control device.

FIG. 12B is a block diagram of electrical components 1250 according toone embodiment of the invention. The electrical components 1250 are, forexample, suitable for use as the electrical components for the base 1110of FIG. 11 . The electrical components 1250 can also represent onerepresentative, more specific embodiment of the electrical components1200 shown in FIG. 12A wherein wireless communication is to besupported. The electrical components 1250 include a controller 1252, awireless communication interface 1254, an antenna 1256, and a battery1258. The controller 1252 can manage the overall operation of theelectrical components 1250 and can output a speaker line 1260 andreceive a microphone line 1262. The speaker line 1260 and the microphoneline 1262 can be provided through at least one of the cords 1112. In oneembodiment, at least one of the cords 1112 has a first electricalconductor that electrically connects to the speaker line 1260, and asecond electrical conductor that electrically connects to the microphoneline 1262.

The electrical components 1250 can further include a memory 1264 and anInput/Output (I/O) port 1266. The memory 1264 can store data for variouspurposes, such as programs, user preferences, and other data. The memory1264 can provide volatile (e.g., random access memory) or non-volatile(e.g., read-only memory, FLASH, etc.) data storage. The memory 1264 canbe implemented as semiconductor chips or a disk drive. The memory 1264can also be portable from the base 1110, such as a memory card orremovable disk drive. The I/O port 1266 enables the base to receive orsend additional signals to/from the base. The additional signals can besent or received in a wireless manner (e.g., infrared, radio frequency)or a wired manner (e.g., with the assistance of a conductor within atleast one of the cords). These additional signals can be from a user orfrom other electrical devices. As one example, a switch or sensor couldsend data to the I/O port 1266. The switch can be user activated and,more generally, pertains to a user input. The switch, for example, couldbe provided to enable the user to signal other electrical components. Asanother example, a remote control can wirelessly send data to the I/Oport 1266 (e.g., to control some operation of at least some of theelectrical components). As still another example, the I/O port 1266 cansend data to an output device, such as a light source, display device,etc.

At least one of the cords can be just a piece of flexible conductorencapsulated by a flexible insulator. Typically, a cord includes anumber of electrical wires or conductors. There can be one or moreelectrical components in the base, and there can also be one or moreelectrical components in the cords. The different types of connectors indifferent embodiments can be located in the base. In one embodiment, apower source is an electrical component in the base tethered to a pairof glasses. In another embodiment, the glasses are tethered to a basethat has a connector. The connector is connected to and draws power froman external electronic device. In this embodiment, electrical componentsin the glasses draw power from the external electronic device.

FIG. 12C shows an embodiment where a user 1270 is wearing a pair ofglasses 1272, which include electrical components, such as a speaker1273. There are also tethered electrical components in a base 1274,which is connected to the glasses 1272 through a cord 1276. In addition,there is a wire 1278 (or cable) connected between a connector at thebase 1274 and a connector at a portable electronic device 1280. Theportable device 1280 can be (a) a multimedia device, such as a MP3player/recorder or a minidisk player, (b) a wireless communicationdevice, such as a cell phone, or (c) a personal digital assistant, orother types of portable devices with computation, entertainment and/orcommunication capabilities.

In one embodiment, an attachment device 1282 is used to support the base1274, the electrical components in the base 1274 and/or the cord 1276.For example, the attachment device 1282 can be a pin, clip or Velcro®,or other suitable mechanisms. The attachment device 1282 attaches atleast a part of the base 1274 and/or the cord 1276 to the user'sclothing. Alternatively or additionally, a similar attachment device canalso serve to attach the wire 1278 to the user's clothing.

The cords 1112 as shown in FIG. 11 can couple to the frame 1104 of theeyeglasses 1102 in a variety of different ways. Additionally, one ormore electrical components can be attached to or provided within theframe 1104 of the eyeglasses 1102—the eyeglass electrical components. Inone embodiment, the eyeglass electrical components include a speakerand/or a microphone. In another embodiment, the eyeglass electricalcomponents include a display device and/or a sensor.

FIGS. 13A-13D are diagrams of arrangements of a speaker and a microphoneattached to an arm (i.e., temple) of a frame of a pair of eyeglassesaccording to a number of embodiments. In these arrangements, electricalcomponents are attached to the eyeglasses so that the eyeglasses neednot embed or otherwise include electrical components.

FIG. 13A is a diagram of an arrangement 1300 of a cord 1306 and eyeglasselectrical components according to one embodiment. The cord 1306 couplesto an end portion 1304 of an arm 1302 of a pair of eyeglasses. In oneembodiment, the end portion 1304 can pertain to a temple tip or someportion thereof. One end of the cord 1306 is electrically andmechanically coupled to eyeglass electrical components, such as aspeaker 1308 and a microphone 1310. The speaker 1308 and the microphone1310 are also coupled to the end portion 1304 of the arm 1302. When thecord 1306 is coupled to the end portion 1304 of the arm 1302, thespeaker 1308 and the microphone 1310 are also coupled against the endportion 1304 of the arm 1302.

FIG. 13B is a diagram of an arrangement 1320 of a cord 1322 and eyeglasselectrical components according to one embodiment. The cord 1322 couplesto the end portion 1304 of the arm 1302 of a pair of eyeglasses. The endportion of the cord 1322 is coupled to eyeglass electrical componentsvia an extension 1324. The eyeglass electrical components carried by theextension 1324 include, for example, a speaker 1326 and a microphone1328. The extension 1324 facilitates positioning of the speaker 1326 andthe microphone 1328 relative to the pair of eyeglasses or its user.

FIG. 13C is a diagram of an arrangement 1340 of a cord 1342 and eyeglasselectrical components according to one embodiment. The cord 1342 couplesto the end portion 1304 of the arm 1302 of a pair of eyeglasses. The endportion of the cord 1322 is coupled to eyeglass electrical componentsvia an extension 1344. The eyeglass electrical components carried by theextension 1344 include, for example, a speaker 1346 and a microphone1348. The extension 1344 facilitates positioning of the speaker 1346 andthe microphone 1348 relative to the pair of eyeglasses or its user.

The arrangement 1340 is similar to the arrangement 1320 but theextension 1344 is positioned differently than the extension 1324. Itshould be noted that that the extension 1324 illustrated in FIG. 13Band/or the extension 1344 illustrated in FIG. 13C can be rotatablyattached to the end portion of the cord 1322. In one embodiment, theextension 1324 illustrated in FIG. 13B can rotate into the position ofthe extension 1344 illustrated in FIG. 13C and vice versa.

FIG. 13D is a diagram of an arrangement 1360 of a cord 1362 of eyeglasselectrical components according to one embodiment. The cord 1362 has anelastic end 1364 that slides on an end portion of an arm 1302 of a pairof eyeglasses. Eyeglass electrical components, such as a speaker 1366and a microphone 1368, can be affixed or integral to the elastic end1364.

FIG. 13E is a diagram of an arrangement 1370 of a speaker in a base thatprovides audio output in the vicinity of an arm of a frame of a pair ofeyeglasses according to another embodiment. In particular, thearrangement 1370 illustrates a pair of eyeglasses 1372 having at leastone lens 1374 and at least one arm 1376. A base 1378 couples to theeyeglasses 1372 by way of a cord 1380. The cord 1380 can be integralwith the base 1378 or attachable to the base 1378. The cord 1380 canattach to an end portion 1382 of the arm 1376. The base 1378 includes anaudio delivery system 1384. The audio delivery system 1384 can, forexample, pertain to a MP3 player, a RF receiver (e.g., a radio), or amini-compact disc player. The audio delivery system 1384 outputs audiosignals to a speaker 1386 which provides an audio output. The audiooutput from the speaker 1386 is directed by a funnel 1388 into a tube1390 that extends from the funnel 1388 through the cord 1380. At an end1392 of the tube 1390, the audio output is presented—namely, to a userof the eyeglasses 1372. Note the tube 1390 exits the cord 1380 in thevicinity of its end that attached to the eyeglasses 1372. As an example,the tube 1390 can be a plastic tube. At least the portion of the tube1390 that is external to the cord 1380 can be malleable to allow useradjustment relative to the user's ear.

FIG. 14A is a diagram of an arrangement 1400 of an arm 1402 of a frameof a pair of eyeglasses and a cord 1404 of an apparatus having tetheredelectrical components according to one embodiment. The cord 1404 has aloop 1406. The loop 1406 can be used to secure the cord 1404 to the arm1402. For example, the loop 1406 can be elastic. The arm 1402 includeseyeglass electrical components, such as a speaker 1408 and a microphone1410, which are integral with the arm 1402. In one embodiment, thespeaker 1408 and the microphone 1410 are housed within the arm 1402.

The cord 1404 contains at least one electrical conductor and the arm1402 contains at least one electrical conductor. The securing of thecord 1404 to the arm 1402 not only physically secures the cord 1404 tothe arm 1402 but also electrically connects the at least one electricalconductor within the cord 1404 to the at least one electrical conductorwithin the arm 1402. In this manner, electrical components within a base(e.g., base 1110) coupled to the cord 1404 can provide electricalsignals to the speaker 1408 and the microphone 1410 within the arm 1402.

FIG. 14B is a diagram of an arrangement 1420 of an arm 1421 for a frameof a pair of eyeglasses according to one embodiment. According to thisarrangement 1420, the arm 1421 includes a connector port 1422, aconductor 1424 (e.g., wire), a speaker 1426, and a microphone 1428. Thespeaker 1426 and the microphone 1428 are eyeglass electrical components.In the present invention, a conductor is not considered an electricalcomponent if the conductor's sole intended function is to provideelectrical connections to two or more electrical components. As such,the conductor 1424 is not considered an electrical component. In oneembodiment, a connector is also not considered an electrical component.The conductor 1424 is internal to the arm 1412, and the speaker 1426 andthe microphone 1428 may also be internal to the arm 1412. The connectorport 1422 can receive a counterpart connector connected to a cord (e.g.,cord 1112), thereby electrically coupling a conductor within the cord tothe conductor 1424 within the arm 1421. The arm 1421 can be used as areplacement arm so as to convert a standard pair of eyeglasses into apair of eyeglasses that can exploit tethered electrical components, suchas for wireless communications. In one implementation, the arm 1421 hasa hinge portion 1430 to couple the arm 1421 to a frame of a pair ofeyeglasses.

FIG. 14C is a diagram of an arrangement 1440 of an arm 1441 for a frameof a pair of eyeglasses according to one embodiment. The arm 1441 isgenerally similar to the arm 1421 shown in FIG. 14B, but furtherincludes additional eyeglass electrical components, such as a lightsource 1442. The light source 1442 can, for example, be a Light EmittingDiode (LED). The light source 1442 can provide ornamental lighting tothe frame or can serve as an indicator light. The indicator light canprovide various indications, such as, in use, operational status ofelectrical components, user's mood, user's health condition, etc.Optionally, the arrangement 1440 of the arm 1441 can also include anextension 1444 and/or an extension 1446. The extension 1444 can be usedto direct light from the light source 1442 to a different location. Theextension 1444 can be rotatable, malleable or retractable (e.g., foldingout). In one embodiment, the extension 1444 can be a light pipe. Theextension 1446 (e.g., a boom arm) can move the microphone 1428 to an end1448 of the extension 1446, thereby closer to the mouth of the user. Inanother embodiment, the same extension 1444 or 1446 can include thelight from the light source 1442 and the microphone 1428.

FIG. 15A is a diagram of a connection arrangement 1500 of an arm 1502 ofa pair of eyeglasses and a cord 1506 according to one embodiment. Thecord 1506 is used to tether electrical components to the eyeglasses. Thearm 1502 includes a receptacle 1504 (i.e., counterpart connector) forreceiving a connector 1508 connected to the cord 1506. When theconnector 1508 is engaged within the receptacle 1504, the cord 1506 isphysically and/or electrically connected to the arm 1502. Alternatively,the cord 1506 can include the receptacle 1504 and the arm 1502 caninclude the connector 1508.

FIG. 15B is a diagram of a connection arrangement 1520 of an arm 1522 ofa pair of eyeglasses and a cord 1524 according to another embodiment.The cord 1524 is used to tether electrical components to the eyeglasses.The arm 1522 has a connector 1526 at an end region. The cord 1524contains a connector 1528 at an end. The connectors 1526 and 1528 cancouple together (i.e., connector pair) to provide physical and/orelectrical connections between the arm 1522 and the cord 1524. In oneimplementation, the connector pair (connectors 1526 and 1528) providerotatable coupling of the cord 1524 to the arm 1522. In one particularimplementation, the connector pair can be a BNC or coaxial typeconnector.

FIG. 15C is a side view of the connection arrangement 1520 of FIG. 15Bwhen the connector 1526 and the connector 1528 are coupled together. Asa result, a conductor in the cord 1524 can be electrically coupled to anelectrical component within the arm 1522. In one implementation, theconnector 1528 couples to the cord 1524 in a flexible or rotatablemanner, so as to permit relative movement between the cord 1514 and thearm 1522 once the connector 1526 and the connector 1528 are coupledtogether. For example, the flexible or rotatable coupling can beachieved by a swivel joint at or near the connectors 1526 and 1528.

FIG. 16 is a side view of an apparatus 1600 having electrical componentstethered to another device (i.e., tethered electrical components)according to one embodiment of the invention. The apparatus 1600 has abase 1602, a pair of cords 1604, and a clip 1606. The clip 1606 isaffixed to the base 1602. The base 1602 and the cords 1604 can representany of the embodiments of the invention described herein. The clip 1606is one embodiment of the attachment device 1282 discussed above withreference to FIG. 12C.

The apparatus 1600 having the clip 1606, as an example, can be used tohold the base 1602 against an article of clothing worn by the user. Forinstance, the article of clothing can be a shirt, sweater or jacket wornby the user. More specifically, the clip 1606 can hold the base 1602 tothe collar of a shirt, sweater or jacket worn by the user.Alternatively, instead of a clip, the base 1602 can be held against anarticle of clothing by hook and loop technology (e.g., Velcro®), a pin,tape, a pocket, etc.

FIG. 17 is a side view of an apparatus 1700 having electrical componentstethered to another device (i.e., tethered electrical components)according to another embodiment of the invention. The apparatus 1700include a base 1702, a pair of cords 1704, and a ring 1706. At least oneof the cords 1704 can include at least one electrical connector. Thering 1706 can be used by a user of the apparatus 1700 to tighten thecords 1704 about the head of the user when the apparatus 1700 isattached to a pair of eyeglasses being worn by the user. The base 1702and the cords 1704 can represent any of the embodiments describedherein. In one embodiment, the base 1702 is integrally formed with thering 1706. In this embodiment, the base 1702 tends to be placed at theend of the cords 1704. However, the base 1702 need not be positioned atthe end of the cords 1704. In still another embodiment, the base 1702can include or connect to a ring, such that the base 1702 can slidealong the cords 1704 as does a ring while maintaining connection withthe at least one electrical connector of at least one of the cords 1704.

FIG. 18 is a flow diagram of call processing 1800 using tetheredwireless communication components according to one embodiment of theinvention. The tethered wireless communication components interact witha communication device. The tethered wireless communication componentscan be the components within the base 1110 shown in FIG. 11 , such asthe electrical components 1250 shown in FIG. 12B. In this embodiment,the communication unit supports two-way communication, such as an audioconversation between two persons. For example, the communication unitcan be a mobile telephone (e.g., cellular phone), a computer (desktop orportable), a cordless phone, a speaker phone, a voice-activated device,etc.

The call processing 1800 begins with a decision 1802 that determineswhether a call is incoming. When the decision 1802 determines that acall is not incoming, then the call processing 1800 waits for such acall. Once the decision 1802 determines that a call is incoming, thedecision 1804 determines whether tethered wireless communicationcomponents are present. When the decision 1804 determines that tetheredwireless communication components are not present, then the incomingcall is processed 1806 using conventional call handling. In this case,since tethered wireless communication components are not present, thecommunication unit proceeds to handle the call in a conventional mannerwithout the benefit of tethered wireless communication components.

On the other hand, when the decision 1804 determines that tetheredwireless communication components are present, then the tetheredwireless communication components (tethered components) are activated1808. Here, the wireless communications capability of the tetheredcomponents is activated (e.g., powered-up, enabled, or woken-up). Theuser of the tethered components is then notified 1810 of the incomingcall. In one embodiment, the notification to the user of the incomingcall can be achieved by an audio sound produced by the tetheredcomponents and output by a speaker. The speaker is electrically coupledto the tethered components, e.g., such as in the various embodimentsnoted above. Alternatively, the user of the communication unit could benotified by a vibration of the tethered components, vibration of theframe of the eyeglasses or a base tethered to the glasses, or a visual(e.g., light) indication provided by the eyeglasses or the tetheredcomponents. Alternatively, the communication unit could include a ringerthat provides audio sound and/or vibration indication to signal anincoming call. Still another alternative is that the tethered componentsor the frame of the eyeglasses could provide a tactile action to theuser so as to notify the user.

Next, a decision 1812 determines whether the incoming call has beenanswered. When the decision 1812 determines that the incoming call hasnot been answered, the communication unit can activate 1814 a voicemessage informing the caller to leave a message or instructing thecaller as to the unavailability of the recipient.

On the other hand, when the decision 1812 determines that the incomingcall is to be answered, the call can be answered 1816 at thecommunication unit. Then, a wireless link is established 1818 from thewireless tethered components to the communication unit. The wirelesslink is, for example, a radio communication link such as utilized withBluetooth or WiFi networks. Thereafter, communication informationassociated with the call can be exchanged 1820 over the wireless link.Here, the communication unit receives the incoming call, andcommunicates wirelessly with the tethered components such thatcommunication information is provided to the user via the tetheredcomponents. The user is accordingly able to communicate with the callerby way of the tethered components and, thus, in a hands-free manner.

A decision 1822 then determines whether the call is over (completed).When the decision 1822 determines that the call is not over, the callprocessing 1800 returns to repeat the operation 1820 and subsequentoperations so that the call can continue. On the other hand, when thedecision 1822 determines that the call is over, then the tetheredcomponents are deactivated 1824, and the wireless link and the call areended 1826. The deactivation 1824 of the tethered components can placethe tethered components in a reduced-power mode. For example, thedeactivation 1824 can power-down, disable, or sleep the wirelesscommunication capabilities (e.g., circuitry) of the tethered components.Following the operation 1826, as well as following the operations 1806and 1814, the call processing 1800 for the particular call ends.

Although the communication unit utilized with the call processingperforms two-way communications, other embodiments of the invention canutilize one-way communications (or at least substantially one-waycommunications). For example, a communication unit might produce,receive or play audio content such that the audio content is transmittedto the tethered components in a wireless manner. The tethered componentsthen serve as a receiver for the audio content transmitted from thecommunication unit.

In one embodiment, the communication unit can be a communication devicewith which tethered components can communicate. The communication unitoutputs audio to the tethered components in a wireless manner.

In another embodiment, the communication unit can also be incorporatedinto the tethered communication components. For example, the tetheredcomponents can functionally operate as a two-way communication device(e.g., a mobile telephone). Such tethered components (e.g.,communication components) can then, for example, operate as a mobiletelephone, and may operate through use of voice-activated commands.

FIG. 19 is a flow diagram of operational condition processing 1900according to one embodiment of the invention. The operational conditionprocessing 1900 can, for example, be performed by an apparatus having atleast one operation indicator as well as tethered electrical componentsand/or eyeglass electrical components for a pair of eyeglasses.

The operational condition processing 1900 initially determines 1902 anoperational condition of the electrical components (e.g., tetheredelectrical components and/or the corresponding eyeglass electricalcomponents). The operational condition can, for example, indicatewhether a call is incoming, whether a call is ongoing, or whether theelectrical component is in use. Next, at least one operation indicatorof the electrical components is controlled 1904 based on the determinedoperational condition. The operation indicator can, for example, be alight source (e.g., light emitting diode). The at least one operationindicator can be positioned at a variety of different places of theeyeglasses or the tethered electrical components. In one embodiment, thetethered electrical components are tethered wireless communicationcomponents, and the operation indicator serves as an indicator to othersthat the user of the tethered electrical components is engaged in acall. In another embodiment, the indicator can signal to the wearer ofthe tethered electrical components that a call is incoming. Followingthe operation 1904, the operational condition processing 1900 iscomplete and ends.

FIG. 20 is a flow diagram of sensor processing 2000 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The sensor processing 2000 can, forexample, be performed by an apparatus having at least one sensor as wellas tethered electrical components and/or eyeglass electrical componentsfor a pair of eyeglasses. Optionally, the electrical components furtherinclude at least one operation indicator.

The sensor processing 2000 initially receives 2002 sensor informationfrom the sensor. The sensor information is typically associated with theuser of the eyeglasses. There can be different types of sensors. Thesensors can be considered either eyeglass electrical components ortethered electrical components. For example, the sensor can be atemperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of the user. Thesensor can be a humidity sensor configured to sense how much the userhas been perspiring. The sensor can sense whether at least one of theuser's eyes is open or not. The sensor can sense if the user is crying.The sensor can sense the direction the user is looking. In a generalsense, the sensor information can, for example, pertain to physicaland/or emotional conditions of the user.

At least one indicator can then be controlled 2004 based on the sensorinformation. The indicator can be considered either eyeglass electricalcomponents or tethered electrical components. The indicator can, forexample, be a light source or a liquid crystal display. Following theoperation 2004, the sensor processing 2000 is complete and ends.

The indication provided by the indicator can serve various otherpurposes. As an example, the indication can represent physical oremotional status of the user of the eyeglasses or the tetheredelectrical components. For example, the indication can provide anindication of the health or mood of the user of the eyeglasses or thetethered electrical components (e.g., by use of different coloredlight).

Although the at least one sensor for acquiring the sensor informationcan be an eyeglass electrical component or a tethered electricalcomponent, it should be noted that the sensor could also be remotelylocated from the eyeglasses or tethered electrical components, and couldalso communicate therewith in a wired or wireless manner. Wirelesssensors can increase the type of sensor information that can be acquiredand utilized.

In one embodiment, the sensor can be a position sensor that providesposition information. The position sensor can, for example, be a GPSreceiver that is able to fully or partially determine the position ofthe eyeglasses or its user. The position sensor can be integral with thetethered electrical components and thus, for example, provided in a baseportion (e.g., base 1110). Alternatively, the position sensor can beprovided within the frame (e.g., arm) of the eyeglasses as an eyeglasselectrical component.

In one embodiment, the cord is a strap, such as an elastic strap. Thestrap can include or support one or more electrical components, such asa speaker or a microphone. In another embodiment, all of the electricalcomponents are in or supported by the strap. In yet another embodiment,the strap includes at least one electrical connector to allow electricalcomponents in or supported by the strap to couple to additionalelectrical components, such as in a base.

In another embodiment, the tethered electrical components can furtherinclude a memory module. The memory module can provide non-volatile datastorage. For example, the memory module can be a portable (or removable)memory device (e.g., memory card). In one implementation, a base portion(e.g., base 1110) of a tethered apparatus can receive the memory modulethrough, for example, a connector at the tethered apparatus. The memorymodule can, for example, store the sensor information, which can be overan extended period of time. Such memory module can be remotelyinterrogated using wireless communication circuitry, or can be accessedthrough a wired connection with tethered electrical components.

In yet another embodiment, tethered electrical components can furtherprovide audio player capabilities. In such an embodiment, a base portion(e.g., base 1110) of a tethered apparatus can include an audio playerand a battery. The base portion may or may not include wirelesscommunication circuitry. The base portion can also include an audio filestorage. The base can couple to one or more speakers through at leastone cord.

Further, in an alternative embodiment, the output of an operationindicator (e.g., used with the sensor processing 2000) can be audio thatis output to the one or more speakers associated with the tetheredapparatus. Such audio output can signal the user using natural language,voice synthesis, pre-recorded messages, one or more audio beeps, etc.

In another embodiment, one or more electrical connections on a baseportion (e.g., base 1110) of the tethered apparatus facilitateelectrical connection with a battery charger. For example, when thepower source for the tethered apparatus is a rechargeable battery, theability to charge the battery without removing the battery from the baseportion of the tethered apparatus is advantageous. Hence, in oneembodiment, the base portion of the tethered apparatus includes at leastone connector or conductive element (e.g., terminal, pin, pad, trace,etc.) so that electrical coupling between the rechargeable battery andthe charger can be achieved. In this regard, the electrical connector orconductive element is provided on the base portion of the tetheredapparatus and is electrically connected to the battery. In oneembodiment, the placement of the electrical connector or conductiveelement on the base portion serves to allow the tethered apparatus to beplaced within a charger and consequently have the electrical connectoror conductive element be in electrical contact with a counterpart orcorresponding electrical connector or conductive element of the charger.In another embodiment, the base portion can have a port that can couple(e.g., via a cable) with an Input/Output (I/O) port (e.g., USB port) ofa computing device (e.g., computer) so as to provide power to charge thebattery.

In still another embodiment, the charger can be considered a dockingstation, upon which the tethered apparatus or the eyeglasses is dockedso that the battery within the tethered apparatus or the eyeglasses isable to be charged. Hence, the housing of the tethered apparatus or theeyeglasses can likewise include an electrical connector or conductiveelement that facilitates electrical connection to the docking stationwhen docked.

In one embodiment, the electrical connection(s) can alternatively beused to allow information stored in the tethered electrical componentsor eyeglasses to be accessed or queried by a device. For example, whenthe tethered electrical components include a memory module, the memorymodule can be accessed to read data (e.g., status information) storedtherein.

In yet still another embodiment, a base portion (e.g., base 1110) of thetethered apparatus can serve merely as a battery source for eyeglasselectrical components. In other words, in this embodiment, the base neednot include other types of circuitries such as wireless communicationcircuitry. In such an embodiment, the size of the base can be largelydependent on the battery size.

The tethered apparatus may be provided with an illuminated ortransparent appearance. For example, at least a portion of the baseand/or cords can be illuminated or substantially transparent. This canprovide not only a unique design appearance but can also facilitatelighting of the tethered apparatus. For example, operation indicatorsthat are light sources, can be completely internal to the base and/orcords and produce light in complex shapes, patterns, etc. through lightpipes, fiber optics, LEDs, etc. Further, the tethered electricalcomponents and/or eyeglass electrical components can have numerous lightsources to display patterns, and the patterns can coordinate or besynchronous with audio sounds, etc.

In one embodiment the tethered apparatus can further include a solarpanel. The solar panel has one or more solar cells that convert lightinto energy so as to power the electrical components and/or charge thebattery for the tethered apparatus or the glasses.

In one embodiment, the eyeglass electrical components can include aswitch or a Radio Frequency Identifier (RFID) element.

As previously noted, a base portion (e.g., base 1110) of the tetheredapparatus can have electrical components pertaining to radiationmonitoring circuitry. In such case, the electrical components within thebase portion alone or together with eyeglass electrical components canimplement a radiation monitoring system. The radiation being monitoredcan, for example, pertain to one or more of UV, infrared and gammaradiation. In one embodiment, sunlight is considered as a type ofradiation. In any case, additional details on radiation monitoring arefurther described in the related applications that have beenincorporated herein by reference.

Also, as previously noted, a base portion (e.g., base 1110) of thetethered apparatus can include electrical components pertaining tohealth or fitness monitoring circuitry. In such case, the electricalcomponents within the base portion alone or together with eyeglasselectrical components can implement a health or fitness monitoringsystem. Additional details on health or fitness monitoring are furtherdescribed in the related applications that have been incorporated hereinby reference.

In yet another embodiment, an electronic component in a templearrangement of a frame of eyeglasses interacts with an electroniccomponent of a tethered apparatus. For example, a temple arrangement ofa pair of eyeglasses holds one portion of an electronic system, and atethered apparatus that tethers to the pair of eyeglasses includesanother portion of the electronic system. In one embodiment, a templearrangement can be a temple tip, which is usually an enclosure thatgrabs onto the temple. In another embodiment, a temple arrangement is atemple cover or a temple fit-over. A temple cover slides over and atleast partially covers a portion of a temple. If the end of the templehas a temple tip, at least a portion of the temple tip can be covered bythe temple cover. A temple fit-over fits over at least a portion of theend of a temple. If the end of the temple has a temple tip, at least aportion of the temple tip is fitted over by the temple fit-over. Atemple cover is typically made of a material that is more flexible thana temple fit-over. For example, a temple cover can be a fabric or othermaterials, such as a sock or sleeve; while a temple fit-over can be madeof plastic.

For some glasses, particularly when a pair of glasses has not beenextensively worn, a temple arrangement, such as a temple tip, can berelatively easily removed and re-inserted into the glasses. This impliesthat temple arrangements of different color and/or shape and/or havingdifferent electronic components can be applied to the same frame of apair of glasses. Retailers or distributors can then provide after-marketmodification or enhancement to a pair of glasses, at the preference oftheir consumers. This, for example, can be done by replacing existingtemple tips with replacement temple tips. Or, a consumer can identifythe preferred temple arrangements to be purchased with the glasses.

The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different embodiments orimplementations may yield one or more of the following advantages. Oneadvantage of the invention is that electrical components can be providedintegral with or attached to a temple arrangement or a temple adapterfor use with a pair of eyeglasses. Another advantage of the invention isthat after-market changes to electrical capabilities of eyeglasses canbe relatively easily achieved Another advantage of the invention is thatcommunication, computation, information capturing or sensing, and/oroperational capabilities can be provided for eyeglasses withoutsubstantial interference to style or design choices of the glasses.Still another advantage of the invention is that wirelesscommunications, radiation monitoring, fitness monitoring and/or healthmonitoring can be supported by the electrical components. Yet anotheradvantage of the invention is the ability to provide hands-free wirelesscommunications capability. Moreover, another advantage of the inventionis that electrical components can be separated into two areas, oneintegral or attached to a pair of eyeglasses, and the other tethered tothe pair of eyeglasses. Different components can be positioned indifferent areas depending on applications and/or aesthetical reasons.For example, power sources can be placed away from but tethered to theeyeglasses to reduce the weight of the eyeglasses. Another advantage ofthe invention is that additional functionality can be added to eyewearthat a user already owns. Another advantage is that additionalfunctionality can be added to eyewear when desired. Another advantage ofthe invention is the ability to provide hands-free wirelesscommunications capability. Yet another advantage of the invention isthat wireless communications, radiation monitoring, fitness monitoringand/or health monitoring can be supported by tethered electricalcomponents. Still another advantage of the invention is thatcommunication, computation, information capturing or sensing, and/oroperational capabilities can be provided for eyeglasses withoutsubstantial interference to style or design choices, and thus withoutbeing apparent that the eyeglasses support such capabilities. Yetanother advantage of the invention is that one or more operationindicators can be provided (as tethered electrical components or on orwith eyeglasses) for functional reasons (e.g., to indicate operationalcondition of circuitry or to indicate condition of user), and/or forornamental purposes also, such as light patterns. Still yet anotheradvantage of the invention is that tethered electrical components foreyeglasses can also include one or more sensors, and can provide storagecapabilities for sensor information.

A number of embodiments according to the present invention regardingglasses with one or more electrical component partially or fullyembedded, will be described. Many of them are applicable to differenttypes of glasses, such as sunglasses, auxiliary frames, fit-overglasses, prescription glasses, safety glasses, swim masks, and goggles,such as ski goggles. In a number of embodiments, the frames of theglasses have more surface area than frames with minimal structure. Forexample, the temple regions of the glasses can have a taper profile.They are wider or broader when they are closer to the lens holders. Thenthey get narrower. In one embodiment, a wider or broader temple impliesthat the temple spans across a wider or broader area longitudinally downfrom the top of the head of the user. FIG. 21 shows an example of suchan embodiment.

FIG. 21 shows one embodiment 2100 of the invention where there is aspeaker 2102 at least partially embedded in one of the temples 2104 ofthe glasses 2106. The speaker 2102 is closer to one end of the temple104 than the other end. The end of the temple that the speaker 2102 iscloser to is the end that is in the vicinity of the lens holder or thehinge of the glasses 2106, instead of the end 2108 that is free. Thespeaker can be partially embedded in the glasses. For example, the mouthof the speaker, where sometimes there can be small holes on a cover, canbe exposed.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 21 , the speaker 2102 outputs audiosignals in the direction towards the user. In another embodiment, thespeaker 2102 outputs audio signals in the direction away from the user.For example, the mouth of the speaker 2102 can be facing outwards awayfrom the user.

There are different approaches to embed an electrical component into apair of glasses. For example, the glasses can be made of plastic (e.g.,plastic frames). One way to produce such frames is to first assembleelectrical components onto a circuit board. The circuit board can beshaped to fit, for example, the temple of the glasses. The circuit boardis placed into a mold. Then, hot, molten plastic is injected around thecircuit board to form the temple piece of the glasses. To reduce weight,the wall of the glasses can be made relatively thin through injectionmolding techniques.

In another embodiment, the glasses have metallic frames. For example,the frames can be made of Titanium, which is a relatively light metal.Also, Titanium is relatively non-conductive and strong, and is quiteimmune to corrosion. Further, Titanium can be anodized or heat colored.

For glasses with metallic frames, to prevent circuits from being shortedor to reduce leakage current, one embodiment provides an insulatinglayer between the electrical components or circuit board and themetallic frames. One example of an insulting layer is a tape toencapsulate the electrical components. The tape is non-conducting so asto provide insulation and, to a certain degree, can also providemechanical stiffness. One way to make such temples is to have two sheetsof the metal die-stamped to form the two halves, or the two faces of thetemple piece. A circuit board is made to fit into the space between thefaces. Then, two die-cut pieces of insulator material (e.g., dielectrictape) can cover the top and the bottom surfaces of the circuit board.The board is then sandwiched between the faces to form the temple. Inone example, the dielectric tape can be double-sided sticky tape, withone side sticking to the circuit board, and the other side sticking tothe temple. An adhesive can be used to glue the two faces of the templepiece together.

In yet another embodiment, the frames are made of hard rubber. Theframes can be manufactured in an approach similar to injection moldingtechniques, with circuit boards inserted into the mold along with therubber at the time of molding.

Different types of speakers can be used, such as, standard,fixed-magnet/moving coil speakers; speakers with fixed-coil and a steeldiaphragm; piezoelectric speakers; and electrostatic speakers.

In one embodiment, the glasses further include a tube, such as a plastictube, extending from a speaker. The tube serves to guide sound generatedby the speaker to one of the ears of the user. FIG. 22 shows anembodiment where a tube 2150 is located on the outside of a temple 2152.In another embodiment, the tube can be on the inside of a temple.

In one embodiment, the tube 2150 can be rotated, such as from behind thetemple 2152 (if the tube is on the inside of the temple) to beingdownward at an angle towards one of the ears of the user, such as theposition shown in FIG. 22 . To increase flexibility, the tube can beattached to a rotating disk 2154, which allows rotation about thespeaker.

In another embodiment, the tube is malleable. This allows the tube to beplaced in different positions.

In one embodiment, the length of the tube is adjustable. FIG. 23 showssuch an embodiment 2200 of a pair of glasses with a retractable tube2202. In the figure, the tube is shown to be in its extended position.

To further enhance sound coupling, in one approach, there is a plug 2156at the end of the tube for inserting into an ear of the user. The plugcan be an ear bud. The plug can provide a cushion, foam rubber or othermaterials. Such materials give comfort and/or enhance sound coupling tothe ear canal.

In another approach, there is a funnel at the output of the speaker.FIG. 24 shows the cross section of such a funnel from a speaker at atemple region of the glasses. As shown in FIG. 24 , the speaker 2254sits on a speaker frame 2252, and the speaker 2254 is electricallyconnected to a circuit board 2256. As sound is generated from thespeaker 2254, the sound propagates to a tube 2258 through a structure2260 in the shape of a funnel. Such a structure helps guide the sound tothe tube (i.e., improved sound coupling). Also, FIG. 24 shows the tube,which can be the tube 2150 shown in FIG. 22 , mounted onto the templeregion of the glasses with a circular lip 2262. Such a lip 2262 allowsthe tube 2258 to rotate relative to the glasses. In the embodiment shownin FIG. 24 , the speaker 2254 is fully embedded in the glasses.

As an alternative to or in conjunction with the tube, the glasses caninclude a channel to likewise guide sound generated by the speaker toone of the ears of the user. For example, the channel can be formedwithin a temple. The temple also has an opening to output the soundtowards the user's ear.

FIG. 21 shows one speaker at one of the temples. There can be more thanone speaker at each temple. In one embodiment, there can also be atleast one speaker at each temple. The two speakers can generate stereoeffects.

In another embodiment, the glasses can provide four or more speakers togive a high fidelity sound or a surround sound effect. For example, eachtemple can include one speaker in front of the user's ear, and onespeaker behind the user's ear. The different speakers can generatedifferent portions or sections of the sound. Further, if a base(discussed below) or portable electronic device is coupled to theglasses, the base or portable electronic device can contain anotherspeaker, such as a base or woofer speaker. Such embodiments enable theglasses to provide a personal high-fidelity sound or a surround-soundenvironment.

Electrical signals can be coupled to an electrical component, such as aspeaker, in a pair of glasses through a number of mechanisms. In oneembodiment, there is an electrical connector at least partially embeddedin the glasses. In other words, at least a portion of the connector isinside the glasses. The connector is electrically coupled to the speaker(or other electrical component) by, for example, a conductor. Theconductor can be on a printed-circuit board. In one embodiment, theconductor is also embedded in the glasses.

Regarding connectors, FIG. 25 shows one embodiment where the connectoris not a standard connector. The end 2108 of the temple 2104 of theglasses 2106 shown in FIG. 21 has a similar connector. In FIG. 25 , theconnector is a male plug or a male connector 2300 at the end of a temple2302 of a pair of glasses. The connector 2300 is connected to thespeaker through, for example, one or more wires embedded in the temple.Electrical signals external to the glasses can then be coupled to thespeaker (or other electrical component) through the plug.

As shown in FIG. 25 , the free end of the temple 2302 can have arelatively flat cross section. There can be one or moreelectrically-conductive contacts, such as 2304 and 2306, on one or bothof the flat surfaces of the temple. In FIG. 25 , four contacts are shownon one surface of the temple. The contacts, 2304 and 2306, can be metalpads or bumps.

In one embodiment, a non-standard connector can be made usingprinted-circuit board technologies. First, a printed-circuit board withprinted conductors connected to metal contact bumps is produced. Thenplastic is overmolded around the printed-circuit board, with the molddesigned to shut off around the bumps or pads. The overmolded plasticcan serve as the temple, and the pads would be left exposed. Thus,portions of the printed circuit board are covered by plastic, and areaswith the bumps or pads are exposed for connection. These pads serve asthe connectors for the glasses.

Regarding printed-circuit boards, there can be one or more circuitboards in the glasses. For example, there can be a circuit board in oneof the temples of the glasses. Or, the circuits can be divided into twocircuit boards, one in each temple of the glasses. The circuit boardscan carry additional electrical components to be described below.

In one embodiment, the circuit boards are rigid. In another embodiment,the circuit boards are made of flexible materials, such as a polyimidesheet, like Kapton®. In one embodiment, the circuit board is configuredor adapts to the shape of the temple in which it resides.

As shown in FIG. 25 , the end of the temple 2302 serves as a maleconnector (plug) 2300. The non-standard male connector 2300 can bereceived by a non-standard female connector (plug) 2310. Typically, thefemale connector 2310 makes electrical and physical connection throughgrabbing around the male plug. The female connector 2310 can beconnected to a cable 2312.

FIGS. 26A-26B illustrate a process to make the non-standard female plug2310. First, an electrical wire 2354 is attached to a small sheet orpiece of metal 2356. FIG. 26A shows a number of such wires, with anumber of the metal sheets or pieces crimped to a hard PVC 2358. Thefigure shows the back side of the crimped board with the wires and witha number of holes, such as 2360. Then the frame is overmolded with asoft PVC. FIG. 26B shows a cross section of the overmoded frame 2362with the soft PVC. As shown in the figure, a number of the metal sheets,such as 2364 and 2366, are exposed. They are the metal contacts in thefemale connector 2310. Instead of the above approach, alternatively, awire can be attached to a sheet of metal by putting the wire between themetal and the plastic as the metal is crimped onto a plastic. When thetemple (i.e., male connector 2300) is inserted into the female plug, thesoft PVC material stretches slightly, providing a spring-force to keepthe contacts connected.

The hard PVC can have a hardness of over 80 durometer, while the softPVC can have a hardness of less than 50 durometer. The hard PVC can bereplaced by other materials, such as Polypropylene or cloth. The softPVC can be replaced by Silicone, or a thermo-plastic elastomer, such asKraton®.

Referring to both FIG. 25 and FIG. 26B, when the male connector 2300 isinserted into the slot 2314 of the female connector 2310, the metalpads, 2304 and 2306, will get in contact, or mate, with the metalsheets, 2364 and 2366.

In one embodiment, as long as the male connector 2300 is pushed all theway into the female connector 2310, the pads are aligned correctly tothe sheets for electrical connections. In another embodiment, there isan alignment mechanism to guide the position of the temple relative tothe female connector so as to ensure the conductive sheets to be incontact with the conductive pads. For example, there can be aregistration location to indicate that the male connector is at theappropriate position relative to the female connector. There can be analignment extension, which can be a partial sphere, close to the end ofthe temple 2302, such as between the pads 2304 and 2306, at 2316. And,there can be a corresponding alignment notch at the female connector2310. When the extension is received or caught by the notch, the maleconnector 2300 is in the appropriate position relative to the femaleconnector 2310. In other words, the alignment is proper, and the padsand the sheets are in contact.

FIG. 25 shows the non-standard male connector 2300 at one end of atemple of a pair of glasses. In yet another embodiment, a non-standardconnector can be at another location. FIG. 27 shows another example of anon-standard connector 2400. The connector 2400 includes one or moreconductive pads, 2412 and 2414, on the top side of a temple 2402. Theconnector 2400 is designed to receive another connector 2406 that grabsonto the side of the temple 2402. There can be an indentation 2404 onthe temple 2402 to receive the other connector 2406. The other connector2406 can include a top 2420 and a bottom 2416 clip. There are a numberof conductive pads or sheets inside the other connector 2406. Theindentation 2404 provides an alignment to indicate where the top clip2420 of the other connector 2406 should grab onto the temple 2402 forconnection. At that position, the conductive pads at the temple will bein contact with the conductive pads or sheets at the other connector2406. There can also be another indentation 2418 at the temple 2402 toreceive the bottom clip 2416. This can further enhance the alignmentprocess and to secure the connection.

In FIG. 27 , the other connector 2406 is coupled to one end of a cordand a plug 2408, which can be inserted into a portable device 2410, canbe connected to another end of the cord. The portable device, forexample, can be a cell phone. This type of non-standard clip-typeconnector could be easily applied to the temple with one hand, forexample, while the user is driving a car.

A number of non-standard connectors have been described. In anotherembodiment, the contacts are based on standard connectors, which can beoff-the-shelf connectors. FIGS. 28A-28E show a number of examples ofsuch connectors.

In one embodiment, the standard connector is a standard cylindrical pluglocated at the end of a temple. From a different perspective, the templemolds around the end of the plug. FIG. 28A shows one such embodiment.The plug 2450 can be a standard audio connector or a 3-wire or threeterminal plug, such as a 3.5 mm male stereo mini-phone plug. The 3 wiresfor such a plug are typically one for ground, the other two applicablefor two signals, such as for creating stereo effects. FIG. 28A alsoshows the three wires, 2452, 2454 and 2456, inside the temple, extendedfrom the plug 2450. These wires are for connection to electricalcomponents of the glasses.

In one embodiment, the cylindrical plug 2450 shown in FIG. 28A can beprotected, encapsulated or shrouded. Or, at least a portion of the plugis protected, encapsulated or shrouded. Such protection can, forexample, be for esthetic reasons, or to prevent the plug from scratchingthe face of the user when the user is putting on the pair of glasses. InFIG. 28A, the plug 2450 is partially embedded in a temple.

Instead of a three terminal plug, other types of standard cylindricalplugs applicable to different embodiments of the present inventioninclude a serial connector with 3 pins, typically one for ground, onefor transmitting data (Tx) and the third for receiving data (Rx); or (b)a 2-wire connector, one served as ground, the other for carrying, suchas power and modulated signals.

In yet another embodiment, instead of a cylindrical plug, the standardconnector at the end of a temple of a pair of glasses is a USB or aFIREWIRE connector.

A number of embodiments have been described where the standardconnector(s) at the glasses are male connectors. In yet anotherembodiment, the standard connector(s) in the glasses are femaleconnectors. For example, there can be a 3.5 mm female stereo mini-phoneplug at the end of a temple of a pair of glasses. At least a portion ofthe female connector can be protected, encapsulated or shrouded. Forexample, the female connector can be recessed within the end of atemple.

FIGS. 28B-28E show different examples of standard connectors located orpartially embedded not at the end of a temple of a pair of glasses, but,for example, on the side of the temple, such as on the inside surface orthe outside surface of a temple. FIG. 28B shows a 0.10″ header plug2460, commonly known as a MOLEX connector, on such a surface. FIG. 28Cshows a female mini-phone plug 2465 on such a surface. FIG. 28D shows acard connector 2470 to receive a card 2472, such as a removable mediacard (e.g., memory card). There can be a cover 2474 to secure and/orprotect the media card 2472 in place after it is inserted into the cardconnector 2470. FIG. 28E shows a female USB connector 2480 on the insidesurface of a temple 2482 to receive a male USB connector 2484.

FIGS. 28F-28H are diagrams pertaining to providing a removableelectronic device with an eyeglass frame according to one embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 28F illustrates a temple 2490 that includes aconnector 2492. The connector 2492 includes an opening 2494. A removableelectronic device can be coupled to the temple 2490 using the connector2492. More particularly, FIG. 28G illustrates a removable electronicdevice 2496 that includes an electronic device housing 2498 and aconnector 2499. As an example, the removable electronic device 2496 canbe a memory storage device, sometimes referred to as a memory card. FIG.28H illustrates the removable electronic device 2496 coupled to thetemple 2490. The removable electronic device 2496 is coupled to one sideof the temple 2490, such side can be either an inside or outside surfaceof the eyeglass frame. When the removable electronic device 2496 iscoupled to the temple 2490, the connector 2499 of the removableelectronic device 2496 is inserted into the opening 2494 of theconnector 2492. Physical forces between the connector 2499 and theconnector 2492 operate to secure the removable electronic device 2496 tothe temple 2490, yet permit the removable electronic device 2496 to beremovable therefrom.

In one embodiment, the connector 2492 is not electrically connected toany electronic circuitry within the temple 2490 or other parts of theeyeglass frame. In other words, the connector 2492 provides a convenientmeans by which removable electronic devices can be coupled to theeyeglass frame. In another embodiment, the connector 2492 can be coupledto electrical circuitry within the temple 2490 or elsewhere within theeyeglass frame. Such an embodiment allows the electronic componentswithin the removable electronic device 2496 to be utilized with theelectrical circuitry within the temple 2490 or elsewhere within theeyeglass frame. For example, the removable electronic device 2496 canprovide data storage and/or other software modules to be utilized by orto utilize the other electrical circuitry within the temple 2490 orelsewhere within the eyeglass frame. In any case, by attaching theremovable electronic device 2496 to the temple 2490 (and thus theeyeglass frame), the removable electronic device 2496 is able to beconveniently carried by the user of the eyeglass frame. In oneimplementation, the eyeglass frame, which includes the connector 2492,becomes a docking station for the removable electronic device 2496. Assuch, a variety of different removable electronic devices can beinterconnected with the eyeglass frame, as desired. For example, theeyeglass frame can thus support different function or operationsdepending on the removable electronic device that is attached. Forexample, the eyeglass frame might operate as a camera, data storagedevice, FM radio, MP3 player, mobile telephone, pedometer, hearingenhancer, sun sensor, time piece, etc.

In one embodiment, the removable electronic device 2496 can align itselfwith the orientation of the temple 2490, such as shown in FIG. 28H. InFIG. 28G, the electronic device housing 2498 can be said to have anelongated housing. The configuration (e.g., shape) and/or color of theremovable electronic device 2496 can also be designed to conform orcomplement the design of the temple 2490. In one embodiment, the temple2490 might also have a recessed region to allow the portable electronicdevice to be less visually perceptible when attached to the temple 2490or to provide a more consistent contour of the temple 2490.

In one embodiment, the connector 2499 is a male connector, and theconnector 2492 is a female connector or a similarly sized structure. Inone implementation the connector 2499 is a peripheral bus connector,such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector. In such cases, theconnector 2492 can also be a peripheral bus connector (eitherelectrically functional or non-functional as noted above).

Although the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 28F-28H utilize connectors,namely, electrical connectors, the removable electronic device 2496could be attached to the temple in other ways. For example, other meansto provide physical forces to hold the removable electronic device 2496in place can be used.

FIG. 28I is a diagram of a temple of an eyeglass frame according toanother embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the temple2490′ includes an opening 2491 through which a cable 2493 extendsoutward. The cable 2493 has an electrical connector 2495 connected atits end. The electrical connector 2495 is electrically connected toelectrical circuits within the temple 2490′ or elsewhere within theeyeglass frame such as by way of one or more wires contained within thecable 2493. In one implementation, the length of the cable 2493 is aboutone to four inches. The temple 2490′ shown in FIG. 28I also includes areceptacle 2497. The receptacle 2497 is affixed to or integral with thetemple 2490 to receive the electrical connector 2495. Typically, thereceptacle 2497 provides a holding mechanism for the electricalconnector 2495 when not been utilized. When the electrical connector2495 is being utilized, the electrical connector 2495 is removed fromthe receptacle 2497 and coupled to a corresponding counterpart connectorof another electrical device. The cord 2493 can provide ease-of-use sothat the electrical connector 2495 can be maneuvered to couple to thecounterpart connector. In one embodiment, the temple 2490′ can provide arecess for receiving the entire cable 2493, with the outer surface ofthe receptacle 2497 being substantially flush to the surface of thetemple 2490. So when the connector 2495 is not in use, the connector2495 can be in the receptacle 2497, with the cable 2493 in the recess.In one embodiment, when the cable 2493 is in the recess and theconnector 2495 inside the receptacle 2497, the cable 2493 hassubstantially no slack. Also, in another embodiment, the cable 2493 canbe retractable into the opening 2491. In the embodiment shown in FIG.28I, the electrical connector 2495 is a male connector, and thereceptacle 2497 is a female connector or a similarly sized structure.

A number of standard and non-standard connectors have been described.Other types of connectors can also be used. In one embodiment, there isa connector adapter, which serves to transform such other type ofconnectors to a different interface. For example, an adapter can be acord with one type of connector at one end and a different type ofconnector at the other end.

In one or more of the above embodiments, the glasses can access audiosignals from another device through a connector at the glasses. Theanother device can be a multimedia asset players or a radio.

In one embodiment of the invention, the glasses have a storage medium(i.e., memory). The memory can be on a printed-circuit board and, forexample, store 256 MBs or more. The memory can be a built-in orremovable flash memory. The memory can be coupled to a device externalto the glasses through one or more connectors at the glasses. As anexample, a 256 MB flash memory is in one of the temples of a pair ofglasses, and there is a USB connector at the free end of that temple tocouple to an external device.

With the embedded storage medium, the glasses can upload information inthe memory to or download information into the memory from an externaldevice, such as a computer. A user can plug the glasses into thecomputer through a connector, either directly, or indirectly, with, forexample, an intermediate wire in between. The user can store files inthe glasses. Such an embodiment should reduce the chances of the userlosing the files because the user has to lose the glasses as well.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, a pair of glasses includes amultimedia asset player, such as a MP3 player. FIG. 29 shows some of theelectrical components for a MP3 player 2500 according to an embodimentof the invention. The player 2500 includes a speaker 2502 and a data bus2512, which facilitates data transfer among, for example, a processor2506, a storage device 2510, and a coder/decoder (CODEC) 2504. Theprocessor 2506, which can be a microprocessor or controller, controlsthe operation of the player 2500. The storage device 2510 stores themultimedia assets, such as MP3 files, or other types of media data thatare appropriately formatted. In one example, the MP3 files are digitallyencoded songs or other types of audio signals. The storage device 2510can include a number of separate storage elements. For example, thedevice 2510 can be a flash memory device, or a minidisk device, and acache, which can improve the access time and reduce power consumption ofthe storage device. The storage device 2510 typically also includes aRead-Only Memory (ROM), which stores programs, utilities or processes tobe executed in a non-volatile manner. The player 2500 can also include aRAM, such as for the cache.

Once a media asset, such as a song, is selected to be played, theprocessor 2506 would supply the asset to the CODEC 2504, whichdecompresses the asset and produces analog output signals for thespeaker 2502. In one embodiment, the bus 2512 is also coupled to aninput/output device 2508, which would allow a user to upload songs inthe glasses to an external instrument, such as a computer, or downloadsongs from the instrument to the glasses.

There are different approaches to select a song. In one embodiment, thesongs or the media assets can be categorized in the MP3 player, and thecategorization can be hierarchical, with multiple levels in thehierarchy. To illustrate, assume that there are three levels. The toplevel can be the name of the singer; the second level can be the timeperiod when the asset was produced, and the third level can be the namesof the songs. The entries, such as the name of the singer, can beabbreviated. There can be a small display and a control knob to allow auser to scroll down entries in a level. By pushing the knob, the userselects an entry, which can lead the user to a lower level. There can bean entry for moving up a level also. In another embodiment, the displayis a touch-screen display, allowing entries to be entered directly onthe display. In yet another embodiment, entries can be selected based onvoice recognition.

A number of embodiments have been described with the glasses having aconnector. In one embodiment, the glasses can have more than oneconnector. For example, a pair of glasses with two connectors also has aspeaker. One connector is, for example, at a broad side of a temple, asin FIG. 28D. The connector can be for coupling to multimedia assets of aMP3 player. Another connector is, for example, at the end of a temple,as in FIG. 28A. That connector can couple power to the glasses. Thespeaker can play the multimedia assets accessed from one connector,based on power from another connector.

As described, power (e.g., external power source) can be coupled to theglasses through a connector. In one embodiment, the power source isembedded inside or inserted into the glasses. Different types of powersources are applicable. For example, the power source can be a battery,a fuel cell, a solar cell, or a re-chargeable battery. The rechargeablebattery can be charged through a connector at the glasses.

In an earlier application, namely, U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/509,631, filed Oct. 9, 2003, and entitled “TETHERED ELECTRICALCOMPONENTS FOR EYEGLASSES,” which is incorporated herein by reference,there can be a base connected to the glasses through a cord. The cordcan be just a piece of flexible conductor encapsulated by a flexibleinsulator. Typically, a cord includes a number of electrical wires orconductors. There can be one or more electrical components in the base,and there can also be one or more electrical components in the cord. Thedifferent types of connectors previously described can be located in thebase. In one embodiment, a power source is an electrical component inthe base tethered to a pair of glasses. In another embodiment, theglasses are tethered to a base that has a connector. The connector isconnected to and draws power from an external electronic device. In thisembodiment, electrical components in the glasses draw power from theexternal electronic devices.

FIG. 30 shows an embodiment where a user 2550 is wearing a pair ofglasses 2552, which include electrical components. There are alsotethered electrical components in a base 2554, which is connected to theglasses 2552 through a cord 2556. In addition, there is a wire 2558connected to a connector at the base 2554 to a portable electronicdevice 2560. The portable device 2560 can be (a) a multimedia device,such as a MP3 player/recorder or a minidisk players, (b) a wirelesscommunication device, such as a cell phone, or (c) a personal digitalassistant, or other types of portable devices with computing and/orentertaining and/or communication capabilities.

Note that instead of connecting to the portable electronic device 2560through the base 2554, in another embodiment, the glasses 2552 directlyconnect to the portable device 2560 through a cord.

In one embodiment, there is an attachment device 2562, such as a pin orclip. The attachment device attaches at least a part of the glasses tothe user's clothing. The attachment device 2562 can serve to attach thecord 2556 and/or the wire 2558 and/or the base 2554 to the user'sclothing. The attachment can also be through other mechanisms, such asVelcro.

In a number of embodiments, the speaker described is assumed to emitaudio signals. In one embodiment, the speaker emits ultrasonic signals.The glasses can be used, for example, as an insect repellant bytransmitting ultrasound to repel insects, such as mosquitoes. In thisembodiment, the one or more speakers broadcast the ultrasonic signalsaway from the user. In other words, the speakers face outwards, notinwards towards the user. In this embodiment, the glasses, which caninclude a base, also has a power source to provide power to the speaker.There can also be a control knob to turn the one or more speakers on/offon the glasses. There will be additional discussions on the control knobbelow.

In another embodiment, the glasses generating ultrasonic signals can beused to produce audio signals that are more directional. For example,two ultrasonic signals are generated by a speaker in the glasses, withtheir difference frequencies being the audio signals. The audio signalsgenerated based on mixing the two ultrasonic signals can be much moredirectional than audio signals directly generated from the speaker.

Referring back to FIG. 21 , in one embodiment, the glasses include amicrophone 2110. The microphone 2110 can be at the end of a temple 2104close to a lens holder 2112. Or, the microphone 2110 can be in the lensholder 2112, located directly adjacent to the temple 2104. In yetanother embodiment, there can be a small protrusion extending down fromthe temple to house the microphone.

With glasses having a microphone, one can use the glasses to recordvoices into, for example, a storage medium. The storage medium can be inthe glasses, or can be in a base or a portable device attached to theglasses.

Different types of microphones can be used. For example, they can beelectret microphones, crystal microphones, resistance microphones,piezoelectric microphones or moving-coil microphones.

In one embodiment, the glasses with a microphone also include a speakerthat can generate directional sound. A user can speak into themicrophone and his message can be transmitted from the glasses in a moredirectional manner.

In another embodiment, the glasses also include a notificationelectrical component to provide a notification to the user wearing theglasses. The notification can be to notify, alert or display informationto the user. There can be a display located at the inside 2114 of thelens holder, or at the vicinity of the junction 2116 or the hinge of alens holder and its corresponding temple facing the user. Or, there canbe a display at the inside surface of a temple, or at other locations onthe glasses. The display can be one or more light emitting diodes. Toalert the user, one or more diodes can blink. The blinking can be of aspecific sequence. Instead of diodes, the display can be a liquidcrystal display. The display can provide indications or information tothe user. For example, a number or a variable-height bar can be shown.Other than visual indications, the notification or alert can be audio,like a beeper.

In one embodiment, the notification electrical component is forselecting a multimedia asset in a multimedia asset player in a pair ofglasses for the multimedia to play. The multimedia asset player can be aMP3 player.

A number of embodiments of the present invention have been describedwhere electrical signals are transmitted to or from a pair of glassesthrough a physical connection. In one embodiment, electrical signals arewirelessly coupled to a pair of glasses. The coupling can be short rangeor long range. The coupling can be directly to the glasses, or to a baseconnected to a pair of glasses. The glasses with wireless couplingcapabilities can be used to couple to a Bluetooth network, the Internet,a WiFi network, a WiMax network, a cell-phone network or other types ofnetworks. The coupling can also be through a point-to-point link, suchas an infrared link.

FIGS. 31A-31B show examples of some of the electrical components in ortethered to a pair of glasses for wireless connections, according toembodiments of the present invention. In FIG. 31A, a high frequency orRF antenna 2602 wirelessly captures high frequency or RF signals for RFtransceiver circuits 2604. If the transceiver circuits are for aconventional superheterodyne system, the transceiver circuits 2604 mixthe RF signals down to IF signals. Then the IF signals are processed bybaseband circuits. Digital outputs from the baseband circuits arecoupled to a processor 2608 for analysis and synthesis.

Outputs from the processor 2608 are fed to a D-to-A converter 2610 togenerate audio signals for a speaker 2612. Similarly, audio analogsignals from a microphone 2614 can be fed to an A-to-D converter 2616 togenerate digital low frequency signals for the processor 2608 and thento the RF transceiver circuits 2604. The low frequency signals areup-converted by the RF transceiver circuits 2604 and wirelesslytransmitted by the antenna 2602.

In another embodiment, digital conversion is moved closer to theantenna. For example, instead of mixing RF into IF signals, the RFtransceiver circuits 2604 directly perform digital conversion from theRF signals.

Typically, high frequency filters are used at the front end of the RFtransceiver circuits 2604 for the RF signals. In one embodiment, to savespace, FBAR (film bulk acoustic resonator) duplexer is employed. A setof piezoelectric filters can be used to separate incoming and outgoingsignals. For cell phone operation, such filters can enable a user tohear and speak simultaneously. A number of these electronic devices canbe on a circuit board in the glasses. Or, some of the devices are in theglasses, while other in the base tethered to the glasses.

FIG. 31B shows another example of some of the electrical components inor tethered to a pair of glasses for wireless connections according tothe present invention. In this embodiment, there does not need to havedigital data. A speaker 2620 and a microphone 2622 are connected to ananalog interface circuit 2624, which is coupled to a RF transceivercircuit 2626 and an antenna 2628. For the speaker application, thetransceiver circuit 2626 mixes the RF signals down into IF signals,which are converted by the analog interface circuit 2624 into analogsignals for the speaker 2620. Similarly, for the microphone application,its analog signals are converted into the IF signals by the analoginterface circuit 2624 to be up converted by the transceiver circuit2626 into RF signals for the antenna 2628. These types of circuitry aresuitable for, such as, simple radios, analog cell phones, CB radios,walkee-talkees, police radios or intercom systems.

In one embodiment, most of the electrical components are not in theglasses. The pair of glasses includes an antenna to capture the wirelesssignals, and a connector. The wireless signals captured are transmittedthrough the connector to electrical circuits external to the glasses.

A number of processors have been described. The processors can usedifferent types of operating systems. In one embodiment, SymbianOperating Systems are used. In another embodiment, operating systems,such as TinyOS, are used. The operating system could be programmed inC++ and then compiled into machine codes.

For privacy protection, signals can be encrypted before transmission.Encryption can take significant computation power, and may generate afair amount of heat. In one embodiment, encryption capabilities arelocated in a base tethered to the glasses. There can be a fan inside thebase. The fan can be turned on during encryption. In another embodiment,the fan is activated during other high capacity uses for heatdissipation purposes.

In yet another embodiment, there is a fan in the glasses. The fan islocated at a temple of the glasses, in the region close to its lensholder. The fan is used to cool the wearer of the glasses.

In one embodiment, a pair of glasses has access to voice recognitionsoftware. The software can be embedded in (a) the glasses, (b) a basetethered to the glasses, (c) a portable device wired or wirelesslycoupled to the glasses or to the base, or (d) a computing system wiredor wirelessly coupled to the glasses. Or, the software or firmware canbe in more than one of the above devices.

Glasses that can couple to signals wirelessly can be used in differentapplications. For example, the glasses can be a cell phone wireless headset, such as a Bluetooth cordless headset. Such short-distance wirelesstechnologies allow the headset to connect to the user's cell phonewithout a wire. This would allow the user to drive, eat or perform otherfunctions without getting tangled in a pesky wire.

In one embodiment, the cell phone is a VOIP (voice over Internetprotocol) phone.

In one embodiment, for the glasses operating as a cell phone head set,the head set includes active noise cancellation mechanism. For example,the glasses include two microphones. One microphone is for capturing thevoice of the user. But the microphone captures ambient noise also. Itcan be embedded in a protrusion extending from the end of the templeclose to a lens holder, towards the mouth of the user, as the microphone2110 in FIG. 21 . Another microphone can be located at the top of one ofthe lens holders pointing away from the mouth of the user. Thismicrophone is for capturing ambient noise. As a first orderapproximation, outputs from the two microphones could be subtracted fromeach other to provide voice signals with noise reduced.

In yet another embodiment, the glasses with wireless couplingcapabilities also have a multimedia asset player, such as a MP3 player.The glasses can be used to receive music directly in digital formatover, for example, a data-capable network of a mobile operator. Themusic can be received, for example, at a speed of 16 Kbits per second,providing sound quality close to compact disc. If the music istransmitted in a compressed manner, such as in a MP3 format, then themusic data can be received at a much lower speed. In one embodiment, theglasses also have a microphone and can serve as a cellular phone or awireless headset of a cellular phone.

In yet another embodiment, the glasses can serve as a radio, againthrough electrical components in or tethered to the glasses. In thisembodiment, the glasses can include a tuner with one or more controlknobs. The knobs can be used to select channels and to set the volume.

In one embodiment, a pair of glasses allows personalization by includinga preference indicator. The indicator allows a user to provide hispreference, such as on whatever is being output by the glasses. In oneexample, the glasses also has a radio having a speaker and withelectrical components for wireless connection. In this example, theindicator can be used by the user to provide his preference regardingwhatever is being played by the radio at that time. This preference canbe wirelessly transmitted from the glasses to a third party. Toillustrate, when the user is listening to a piece of music, the user canindicate he likes the piece of music by pressing a control knob on theglasses. This piece of preference information is then transmitted andreceived by a service provider, which is then informed of the user'spreference. Instead of a control knob, in another embodiment, thepreference indicator is a system with a microphone and voice recognitionsoftware. The user can indicate his preference vocally.

In another example regarding the personalization process, the glassescan serve as a multimedia asset player, such as a MP3 player. The songthat the user has shown preference can be stored in a storage device,which can be in the glasses.

FIG. 32 shows a process 2650 according to one embodiment of the presentinvention for a personalized radio.

Initially, a pair of glasses according to the present invention receives2652 a piece of music from a radio station. That piece of music isstored 2654 in a buffer or a temporary storage area. This temporarystorage area can be in the glasses or tethered to the glasses. The pieceof music is also sent 2656 to a speaker in the glasses.

Assume that the user likes the music. Based on the preference indicator,the user shows his preference. After the glasses receive 2658 anindication of the user's preference, the glasses determine 2660 the songcorresponding to the indication. That piece of music can then be moved2662 from the buffer to a permanent storage area, such as into a flashmemory. This would then allow the user to subsequently access the pieceof music.

There are different ways to determine 2660 the song or the content beingplayed by the radio corresponding to the indication. For example, onerule is that when the user pushes the preference button or voices hispreference, the song (or media asset or media file) that is being playedis the one the user likes. Since the operating system knows what song isbeing played at what time, based on the rule, the song of preference isdetermined. Another rule is that when the user shows his preference, andthere is no song being played at that instance, the song immediatelypreceding the break is the song of preference.

In another embodiment, the glasses can get 2664 an identification forthe song of preference. For example, the glasses can ask the user toprovide an identification for the piece of music. This identificationcan be the type of music, the singer, the name of the music or otheridentification. In another embodiment, there can be meta data embedded,such as in the beginning part of the music (or media asset). Having suchmeta data embedded is not uncommon for music in digital format. The metadata can include identifications for the music. The glasses can get 2664such identification. Based on the identification, the song iscategorized 2666 accordingly, such as grouped with other songs havingthe same identification. Such categorization process would enhance theease of accessing the song by the user at a later time.

A number of control knobs have been described. FIG. 33 shows a number ofattributes 2700 regarding control knobs according to the presentinvention. The knobs can be of different physical structure 2702. Forexample, a control knob can be a roller, a switch or a push-button. Acontrol knob serving as an up/down controller can use two buttons, or aroller.

A control knob can be more intelligent 2704. For example, a push-buttoncontrol knob can serve different purposes depending on the duration theknob is being pushed. If a user pushes it for more than three seconds,the knob serves as an on-off toggle switch. In another example, a knobcan serve multiple purposes, and the specific purpose depends on thenumber of times the knob is pushed.

A knob can also be programmed. A user can connect the glasses to acomputer and program the knob accordingly. For example, one can programa knob such that if the knob is pushed more than three seconds, the knobwould serve as an on/off switch for the glasses.

The location 2706 of a control knob can vary for different applications.A control knob can be located on the glasses. A control knob can be onthe top, the side or the bottom of the temple. A control knob can belocated at the inside of a temple facing the user. Assume that there area number of control knobs and all of them are on the edges of a temple,except one. By being at a position different from other control knobs,this knob can serve a specific purpose. For example, it can be an on/offcontrol knob. In yet another embodiment, a control knob can be locatedin a base tethered to the glasses.

The number 2708 of control knobs can vary depending on operations. Forexample, there is an on/off control knob and a volume up/down controlknob. If the glasses are used for cell phone headset application, in oneembodiment, there is also an answer/hang-up control knob. If the glassesserve as a radio, in one embodiment, there is also a tuning controlknob, which can be two push buttons. If the glasses serve as a CDplayer, in one embodiment, there is a play control knob, a stop controlknob, and a skip forward/backward control knob. If the glasses serve asa multimedia asset player, such as a MP3 player, in one embodiment,there is a save-this-song control knob, a skip-forward/backward-songcontrol knob and a select-song-to-play control knob.

A number of embodiments of the present invention have been describedregarding audio signals. In one embodiment, the glasses further serve asa camera.

FIG. 34 shows one embodiment of electrical components in a pair ofglasses with image capturing capabilities. A processor 2752 is coupledto a CCD interface chip 2754 and then to a CCD chip 2756. Images focusedby a lens 2758 are captured and collected by the CCD chip. In anotherembodiment, there is also be a flash controller 2760 connected to theprocessor 2752 to control a flash 2762.

In one embodiment, a number of pixels of the CCD chip 2756 are used aslight sensors. The pixels can be used to adjust the sensitivity of theCCD chip 2756 based on the amount of ambient light. For example, if theoutside environment is dim, it would take a longer period of time tocollect enough charges by the CCD chip 2756 to re-create the image. Thisimplies that the integration time of the CCD chip 2756 should increase.

In yet another embodiment, the camera can pertain to a video camera. Thecapacity of the memory 2753 increases so as to store the video images.

In one embodiment, the glasses do not offer adjustment on the imagedistance. The CCD chip 2756 can be located, for example, at the focalpoint of the lens 2758. In another embodiment, there is an imagedistance control knob. For example, a mechanical lever can bepre-programmed or pre-set to move the lens to one or more differentpositions. One position can be for close-up shots, such as objects from2 to 4 ft, and another for scenic or vista images, such as objectsgreater than 6 ft.

Depending on the embodiment, electrical components of a camera can be ina pair of glasses, and/or a base tethered to the glasses, and/or aportable device tethered to the glasses or to the base. For example, thememory 2753 can be in the base tethered to the glasses.

The location of the lens 2758 can vary depending on the embodiment. Inone embodiment, referring to FIG. 1 , one location is at the bridge ofthe glasses, with the lens of the camera facing forward. In thissituation, what the user sees is substantially what the captured imagewould be. In other words, in a general sense, what the user sees is whatthe user gets. With such an embodiment, it is relatively easy for a userto take pictures, hands-free. In another embodiment, another locationfor the lens 2758 are at a side portion adjacent to a lens holder,before the joint of the corresponding temple, such as at 2116 in FIG. 21. Again, the lens of the camera faces forward. Some of the electricalcomponents of the camera can be in that location, and other componentsin the temple 2104. These components are electrically connected throughone of the joints, such as with a flexible pc board. In yet anotherembodiment, the lens 2758 can face sideways and outwards in a temple ofa pair of glasses, towards the left or right side of the user.

Regarding storing the images, in one embodiment, the images are storedlocally. One approach to determine which image to store is thefirst-in-first-out approach. Once the camera is turned on, the cameratakes pictures continually in an automatic mode, such as once every fewseconds. When the memory becomes full or under other pre-set orpre-programmed condition, the first picture stored will be deleted whenthe next picture comes in. In another embodiment, the digital content inone picture is compared to the digital content in, for example, thefifth picture further down. If the difference between the two is notmore than a pre-set threshold, the four pictures in between will bedeleted. One approach to determine the difference is by comparing thetotal charges collected by the CCD chip for the two images. If the twosets of charges do not differ by more than a certain threshold, theimages in between would be deleted.

The images captured can also be stored at a remote site. For example,the glasses can upload the images to a computer, wirelessly or through awired connection from a connector at the glasses.

FIG. 35 shows an operation 2800 of taking certain actions based onimages captured by a pair of glasses with a wireless transceiver,according to one embodiment of the invention. This operation can be usedby a police officer on patrol. Before the officer gets out of his patrolvehicle to confront a suspect, the officer can inform the station. Atthat point, the camera is turned on 2802.

There can be different approaches to turn on the camera. In oneembodiment, an operator at the station can remind the officer to turn onthe camera. Or, the operator can remotely turn on the camera. In yetanother embodiment, the camera can be automatically turned on undercertain condition. One such condition is that if the camera is out ofthe patrol vehicle, the camera is automatically turned on. With theglasses having the capability to wirelessly communicate with the patrolvehicle, one method to detect if the glasses are out of the patrolvehicle is based on the wireless signal strength of the glasses. Thepatrol vehicle can detect the signal strength of the wireless signals,which depends on the distance between glasses and the vehicle. Athreshold can be set. If the signal strength is below the presetthreshold, the glasses would be assumed to be out of the car, and thecamera would be automatically turned on.

After the camera is turned on 2802, the glasses start to continuallytake 2804 pictures, such as once every few seconds. The pictures takenare automatically transmitted back 2806 to the patrol vehicle in awireless manner. In this situation, the patrol vehicle serves as a hub,which stores the pictures. Then, the hub re-transmits 2808 the picturesback to the station. Note that the pictures can be compressed bystandard algorithms before they are transmitted. This compressionmechanism can be performed by a computer in the patrol vehicle. When thestation gets the pictures, they are de-compressed before being viewed,such as by the operator. The pictures enable the operator at the stationto see what the officer is confronting. This effectively allows theoperator at the station to perform real-time monitoring of or for theofficer. If it is a high risk situation, the operator can quickly react2810, such as by dispatching additional support for the officer. In oneembodiment, the glasses can include not only a camera but also amicrophone for audio pickup, such as sounds from the officer, suspect,witness or environmental sounds (such as door opening, gun shot, etc.).

Regarding ownership of the glasses, the user can own the glasses. In oneembodiment, the user leases the glasses from a provider. For example,the user leases a ski goggle with a camera. After the user turns on thecamera, as the user skis, the goggle automatically takes pictures.Later, the user can return the goggle to the provider or a kiosk, wherethe pictures can be retrieved and/or stored. Alternatively, the gogglecan include a wireless transceiver and the images could be uploadedcontinually or automatically to the provider or the kiosk via a wirelessnetwork. The provider or the kiosk can transmit the images to a website,such as a website associated with the user. In another embodiment, theuser picks up hardcopies of the images, e.g., a CD with the images or aDVD with the video, from the provider or the kiosk.

In one embodiment, the glasses allow the user to enter hisidentification. This can be done, for example, through a control knob atthe glasses. Such identification is then linked to the images. Based onthe identification, the user can return to the provider or kiosk at asubsequent time to pick up the images previously left behind.

In yet another embodiment, the pair of glasses with a camera also has aspeaker and a wireless transceiver. It can be used to remotely controlor direct the user wearing the glasses. FIG. 36 shows one such operation2850 according to one embodiment.

To illustrate the operation 2850, assume that the user is a paramedichelping a patient. The glasses continually take pictures 2852 of objectsdirectly in front of the paramedic, such as images around four feet awayfrom the eyes of the paramedic. The pictures are wirelessly transmitted2854 to a remote site, such as a hospital, to be viewed by a doctor.Again, this transmission can be a two-step process. For example,pictures can be transmitted to the paramedic's ambulance, which can thenre-transmit to the remote site. The first transmission from the glassesto the ambulance can be through a low-power, short-range, broadband,wireless transmission protocol. The second transmission from theambulance to the hospital can be through a much longer-range, higherpower, broadband, wireless transmission protocol. Again, compression andde-compression techniques can be used to enhance the rate oftransmission by reducing the amount of data to be transmitted.

Based on the images, the doctor sends out voice messages to theparamedic. These messages are wirelessly transmitted to and received2856 by the glasses. The speaker in the glasses outputs 2858 themessages to the paramedic.

In another embodiment, the glasses also have a microphone, which allowsthe paramedic to communicate directly with the doctor also.

In one embodiment, the glasses can take pictures and can be a multimediaasset player. Pictures and the multimedia assets can share the samememory storage device. In this situation, the capacity for themultimedia assets and pictures can be interrelated. For example, a usercan take more pictures if there are less multimedia assets, such asfewer songs in the storage device.

A number of embodiments have been described regarding electricalcomponents in the temples of glasses. The locations selected are forillustration purposes. In other embodiments, some of the components areembedded fully or partially in other areas of the glasses, such as thelens holders or the bridges of the glasses. For example, there areglasses where there are shields at the edges of the lens holders of theglasses. These shields can wrap around, or better conform to the profileof, the face of the wearer. There can be transparent or translucentwindows on these shields also. The shields are not limited to be inprimary frames. They can be in, for example, fit-over glasses, auxiliaryframes or safety glasses. To illustrate, in fit-over glasses, suchshields can go over or cover at least a portion of the primary frames.One or more electrical components can be in such shields.

Note that in one embodiment, a pair of glasses does not have to includelenses. Also, a number of embodiments have been described with a pair ofglasses tethered to a base. In one embodiment, a pair of glassesincludes a base and a cord connecting the base to the glasses.

In yet another embodiment, a pair of glasses also includes a sensor.FIG. 37A is a chart 2900 that depicts examples of sensors in theglasses.

In one embodiment, the sensor is a “being worn” sensor. The “being worn”sensor indicates whether the glasses are being worn by its user. The“being worn” operation can be performed using, for example, a thermalsensor, a motion detector, a stress sensor or a switch.

In one embodiment, a motion detector is used as a “being worn” sensor. Athreshold can be set, such that if the amount of motion exceeds thethreshold, the eyewear is assumed to be worn. The motion detector can,for example, be achieved by a mechanical means or an accelerometer.

In another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor includes two thermalsensors. One sensor can be at approximately the middle of a temple, suchas in a region that touches the head of the user wearing the glasses.The other sensor can be at the end of the temple, close to its hinge. Ifthe temperature differential between the two sensors is beyond a certainpreset value, the eyewear would be assumed to be worn. The differentialis presumed to be caused by a person wearing the pair of glasses.

In yet another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor includes a stresssensor at the hinge of the temple. The assumption is that when theeyewear is worn, the hinge is typically slightly stretched becausetypically, the width of the head of the user is slightly wider than thewidth between the temples when the two temples are in the extendedpositions. If the value of the stress sensor is beyond a certain presetvalue, the glasses would be assumed to be worn.

In a further embodiment, the “being worn” sensor can be a switch. Forexample, at the hinge between a temple and its corresponding lensholder, there is a switch. When that temple is fully extended outwards,the switch is turned on. The switch can be a pin. When the temple isfully extended outwards, the pin is pressed. When both temples are fullyextended outwards, in one embodiment, the glasses would be assumed to beworn by the user.

In one embodiment, another type of sensor is an environmental sensor.The environmental sensor can sense environmental conditions, such as oneor more of ultraviolet radiation, temperature (e.g., ambienttemperature), pressure, light, humidity and toxins (e.g., chemicals,radiation, etc.).

In another embodiment, another type of sensor is a condition sensor. Thecondition sensor can sense the conditions of the user of the glasses.Examples of physical sensors include sensing one or more of distancetraveled, location, speed, calories consumed, temperature and vitalsigns associated with the user of the glasses. The distance traveledcould represent the horizontal distance traveled or the verticaldistance (i.e. elevation) traveled. The speed can be the rate ofmovement along the horizontal distance traveled and/or the verticaldistance. In yet another embodiment, the condition sensor can sense theemotional conditions of the user of the glasses.

The sensors can be provided in a redundant or fault-tolerant manner. Forexample, sensors can come in pairs in the glasses. When onemalfunctions, the other one will take over its operation. In anotherembodiment, the sensor information can be processed in a differentialmanner to examine changes to the sensor information. The sensors can bypowered by a battery, solar energy, or kinetic energy. For reduced powerconsumption, the sensors can remain in a low-power state unless data isbeing acquired by the sensors. In yet another embodiment, two or more ofthe auxiliary sensors can communicate with one another (wired orwirelessly) to exchange data or control information.

A number of embodiments have been described regarding one or moreelectrical components at least partially embedded in a pair of glasses.In one embodiment, one or more electrical components are at leastpartially embedded in a temple tip of a pair of glasses. Temple tips areparticularly common for wire or metal frames. The pair of glasses has afirst and a second lens holders for receiving lenses. Each of the lensholders has a first side and a second side. The pair of glasses has abridge element that couples the first side of the first lens holder tothe second side of the second lens holder. The pair of glasses alsoincludes a first temple and a second temple. The first temple ispivotally secured to the second side of the first lens holder through ajoint, while the second temple is pivotally secured to the first side ofthe second lens holder through another joint. A temple typically has twoends, a first end and a second end. The first end can be the end that ispivotally secured to a lens holder through a joint, and the second endcan be the other end of the temple. It is not uncommon that a templeincludes a main body and an enclosure that grabs onto the main body ofthe temple. The second end is typically where the enclosure grabs ontothe main body. The enclosure can be made of a different material thanthe main body of the temple. In one embodiment, such an enclosure is atemple tip, and there is an electrical component, partially or fully,embedded in the tip. There can also be a connector, such as theconnector 2300 shown in FIG. 25 , at the temple tip. In anotherembodiment, the temple tip can include a female connector, which can besimilar to the female connector 2310 shown in FIG. 26B. As the templetip grabs onto the main body of the temple, the female connector canmake electrical contact with a male connector at the main body of thetemple. Typically, particularly before a pair of glasses has beenextensively worn, the temple tip can be removed and re-inserted back onto the main body of the temple without a lot of difficulties. Such atemple tip can be an after-market component, with different temple tipshaving different electrical components to serve different functions.

FIG. 37B is a diagram of a temple arrangement 2910 according to oneembodiment of the invention. In this arrangement, a temple tip is notconsidered as a part of the temple. The temple arrangement 2910 includesa temple 2912 that is associated with a pair of eyeglasses. Over the endof the temple 2912 that is opposite the associated lens holder, a templetip 2914 is provided. The temple tip 2914 can be held to the temple 2912by frictional forces and/or adhesive. The temple tip 2914 includes atleast one electrical component 2916 that is at least partially embeddedtherein. The temple tip 2914 can be manufactured and delivered toresellers or retailers as such. Alternatively, the temple tip 2914 canbe separately provided as an optional replacement temple tip for anexisting temple tip. Hence, as after manufacture, upgrade to the eyewearcan be had through replacing the existing temple tip with thereplacement temple tip. The colors and shapes of the temple tip 2914 canvary widely. In the after manufacturing environment, the reseller orretailer can be provided with a range of different colors and shapes sothat a user can receive a replacement tip that reasonably matches thecolor and shape of the temple or that provides an altered appearance asdesired by the user.

Besides a replacement temple tip such as illustrated in FIG. 37B, atemple tip can also be effectively modified by a fit-over temple ortemple cover. FIG. 37C is a diagram of a temple cover 2920 that at leastpartially covers a temple (e.g., temple 2912) according to oneembodiment of the invention. As another example, the temple cover 2920can be a fabric or other material, such as a sock or sleeve, that slidesover and at least partially covers a temple tip. The temple cover 2920can include at one electrical component 2922 that is either attachedthereto or at least partially embedded therein. The temple cover 2920can also include an opening 2924 so as to received a temple or a templetip. The temple cover 2920 can be held to a temple by frictional forcesand/or adhesive. FIG. 37D is a diagram of a fit-over temple 2926 that atleast partially fits over a temple according to one embodiment of theinvention. For example, the fit-over temple 2926 can at least partialfit-over a temple tip. The fit-over temple 2926 includes at oneelectrical component 2928 that is either attached thereto or at leastpartially embedded therein. The fit-over temple 2926 can also include anopening 2930 so as to receive a temple. The fit-over temple 2926 can beheld to a temple by frictional forces and/or adhesive. As an example,the fit-over temple 2926 can be plastic or other material. The colorsand shapes of the fit-over temple 2926 can vary widely. In the aftermanufacturing environment, the reseller or retailer can be provided witha range of different colors and shapes so that a user can receive areplacement temple cover or fit-over temple that reasonably matches thecolor and shape of the temple or that provides an altered appearance asdesired by the user.

In one embodiment, a fit-over temple or temple cover according to theinvention can further include a connector or cable to facilitateelectrical connection with the at least one electrical component that iseither attached to a temple or a temple tip or at least partiallyembedded therein.

In one embodiment, an electrical component is a component of anelectrical circuit, and the electrical circuit is for performing atleast a desired, intended or predetermined function.

A number of embodiments have been described above for an eyeglass frame,i.e., primary frame, are also applicable to an auxiliary frame. Anauxiliary frame can attach to a primary frame through differenttechniques, such as using clips. Another technique to attach anauxiliary frame to a primary frame is by way of magnets. Examples ofusing magnets as an attachment technique can be found, for example, inU.S. Pat. No. 6,012,811, entitled, “EYEGLASS FRAMES WITH MAGNETS ATBRIDGES FOR ATTACHMENT.”

A number of embodiments have been described where one or more electricalcomponents are at least partially embedded in a pair of glasses. In yetanother embodiment, the one or more electrical components are at leastpartially embedded in an eye mask.

FIG. 38 shows one embodiment 2925 where one or more electricalcomponents are at least partially embedded in an eye mask 2927. The eyemask 2927 includes a piece of fabric that is opaque so that when themask is worn, the mask wraps around the eyes to block light fromentering into the eyes of the user.

The embodiment 2925 includes a wrapping mechanism to hold the fabriconto the head of a user so that when the mask is worn by the user, themechanism allows the fabric to have a relatively tight and comfortablefit over the face of the user. In one approach the wrapping mechanism isachieved with the fabric in the shape of a band and having a certaindegree of elasticity. When the mask is worn by the user, the elasticityof the fabric allows the mask to establish a relatively tight fit overthe face of the user. In another example, the fabric is a long piece ofmaterial. The wrapping mechanism includes a clip or Velcro at the twoends of the piece of material to tie the two ends together. In anotherexample, the wrapping mechanism includes two elastic pieces of elasticmaterials at the two ends of the fabric. To wear the mask, each elasticpiece of material goes over one of the ears of the user so that thefabric establishes a relatively tight fit over the face of the user. Inyet another embodiment, the mask 2927 includes a notch 2935 toaccommodate the nose of the user. In another embodiment, there can beadditional padding in the vicinity of the one or more electricalcomponents so that if an electrical component is pressed against theuser, the padding serves as a buffer or cushion.

In one embodiment, a speaker 2929 can be at least partially embedded inthe mask 2927, and can be positioned close to and facing one of the earsof the user. The speaker 2929, through an electrical connector, iselectrically connected to a cable 2931. The cable 2931 can also have aconnector 2933 at its distal end. The connector 2933 can be plugged intoanother device, such as a MP3 player or a CD player. After putting onthe mask, with the connector 2933 plugged into the another device, theuser would be able to hear, for example, audio sounds such as music. Theeyemask 2925 can be applied to different areas. For example, the usercan be on a plane, and would like to rest. The user can put on theeyemask 2925, and plug the connector 2933 into a media outlet at anarmrest of her seat in the plane. Thus, the user can enjoy music whiletaking a rest. The embodiment 2925 could also include a plurality ofspeakers, such as one for each of the user's ears.

In another embodiment, the eyemask 2927 includes the speaker 2929 and abattery that is electrically connected to the speaker 2929. The batterycan be in a pocket on the eyemask and can be replaceable. The batterycan also be a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, andthere is a connector at least partially embedded in the eyemask. Theconnector can be used to recharge the battery.

FIG. 39 shows another embodiment 2950 where one or more electricalcomponents are at least partially embedded in a night cap 2952. In oneembodiment, the cap 2952 is at least partially made of fabric. Inanother embodiment, the cap 2952 is entirely made of fabric. The capincludes a wrapping mechanism. When the cap is worn, the wrappingmechanism holds the cap onto the head of the user, and allows the cap tohave a relatively tight and comfortable fit over the head of the user.Again the wrapping mechanism can be an elastic band at the base 2962 ofthe cap 2952. Or, the wrapping mechanism can include clips or Velcro aspreviously described.

The cap can include at least one speaker 2954, which is at leastpartially embedded in the cap 2952. When the cap 2952 is worn by a user,the speaker 2954 is positioned close to and facing one of the ears ofthe user. The speaker 2954 can, for example, be electrically connectedthrough a connector to a device 2962 in a pocket 2960 on the cap 2952.The electrical connection can be through a cable 2956 external to thecap 2952. The cable 2956 also can have a connector 2958 to be pluggedinto the device 2962. In another embodiment, the cable 2956 is embeddedin the cap. The device 2962 can be an asset player, such as a MP3player, with a battery. Through the connector 2958, audio signals fromthe device 2962 can be received by the speaker 2954 and heard by theuser. There can be one or more additional pockets on the night cap forone or more additional electrical components. When worn, the night capdoes not have to cover the eyes of the user. In yet another embodiment,when worn, the night cap further covers the eyes of the user, as shownin FIG. 39 . In one embodiment, the embodiment 2950 further includespadding in the vicinity of an electrical component to serve as a bufferor cushion between the user and the electrical component.

A number of embodiments have been described involving a speaker in aneyemask or a night cap. In one embodiment, the audio output from thespeaker can serve to cancel the environmental sounds in the vicinity ofthe user. For example, if the user is on an airplane, the surroundingenvironmental sound has a relatively high level of white noise. Thiswhite noise can be detected by a pickup device and cancelled by noisecancellation circuitry provided within the eyemask or night cap. Namely,the audio output from the speaker serves to cancel the white noise ofthe user's environment. In another embodiment, the electrical componentembedded or partially embedded is not a speaker, but can be a sensor,which can sense a physiological function of the user.

FIG. 40A is a diagram illustrating a temple 3000 having a slot forreceiving a removable electronic device 3002 according to one embodimentof the invention. In one example, the removable electronic device 3002can be a memory storage device, sometimes referred to as a memory card.As shown in FIG. 40A, the removable electronic device 3002 is insertedinto the slot. Although the slot could be electrically non-functional,typically the slot provides an avenue for the removable electronicdevice 3002 to be physically and electrically connected to electricalcircuitry within the temple 3000 or elsewhere within the eyeglass frame.FIG. 40B is a diagram illustrating the temple 3000 having a recessedlower portion 3004 according to another embodiment of the invention. Therecessed lower portion 3004 facilitates the insertion and removal of theremovable electronic device 3002. In either embodiment, the removableelectronic device can be manually inserted and removed or can use morecomplicated mechanical mechanisms to assist with the insertion andremoval (e.g., spring-based push and release structure).

FIGS. 41A and 41B are diagrams illustrating a pair of glasses 3100having a camera 3101 coupled thereto, according to one embodiment. Thecamera includes an image sensor 3102 and a camera housing 3106 (alsoreferred to as a camera support arm). In this embodiment, the camera3101 is rotatably coupled to an exterior surface of a temple 3104 of thepair of glasses 3100. The camera support arm 3106 is attached to thetemple 3104. The camera support arm 3106 can couple to the temple 3104using a hinge 3108. In one implementation, the hinge 3108 can use aspring or cam mechanism so that the camera support arm 3106 is heldeither against the temple 3104 when not in use or held in an open orextended position when in use. FIG. 41A illustrates one position of thecamera support arm 3106 when the camera 3101 is not in use. FIG. 41Billustrates one position of the camera support arm 3106 when the camera3101 is in use. The presence of the camera 3101 with the pair ofeyeglasses 3100 enables a wearer of the pair of eyeglasses 3100 to takepictures of what the wearer is looking at. It should be noted that othersupporting circuitry such as data storage for pictures, switches,battery, and electronics for the camera 3101 can be in the temple 3104,in the camera support arm 3106, elsewhere in the pair of glasses 3100,or even tethered thereto. However, in one implementation, the camera3101 is completely self-contained in the camera housing 3106. In oneembodiment, the hinge 3108 can also serve as a switch to turn the imagesensor 3102 on or off.

In one implementation, to improve overall appearance of the pair ofglasses 3100, the temple 3100 can provide a recess for receiving thecamera support arm 3106 when the camera is not being utilized. Such mayimprove the aesthetic appearance of the pair of glasses 2100.

In another implementation, the pair of glasses 3100 can further providea viewfinder. The viewfinder can assist the user in directing the imagesensor 3102 towards whenever the user desired to photograph. Theviewfinder can be a separate apparatus that is extended by user actionor can be a viewfinder that is visually present or presented on one ofthe lenses. In one example, the viewfinder can be an extendable viewerthrough which the user can look through to determine the field ofreference of the image sensor 3102. The viewfinder can be extendiblefrom either of the temples, such as in a telescoping, sliding orflipping action. Additionally, when the camera support arm 3106 isextended, a viewfinder can be automatically initiated. For example,indicators on one of the lens can be visually presented, such as throughoptical projection from one or more light sources. In anotherembodiment, the viewfinder can be always present, such as withindicators on one of the lens of the pair of glasses 3100. Theindicators can be a few faint dots to define an area on the lens.

In one embodiment, the camera support arm (camera housing) 3106 isremovably coupled to the hinge 3108. As such, the camera 3101 can beremoved from or attached to the pair of glasses 3100. Indeed, the camerasupport arm (camera housing) 3106 can be a camera body that houseselectronics for the camera 3101. In such case, the camera 3101 canoperate as a camera apart from the pair of glasses 3100.

In one implementation, the camera support arm 3106 has a connector andthe hinge 3108 has a counterpart connector. In one example, theconnectors are peripheral bus connectors, such as USB connectors. Insuch case, the camera support arm 3106 can be attached and removed fromthe pair of glasses 3100. Such a connection via the connectors can beelectrically functional or non-functional. If functional, electricalcomponents in the pair of glasses 3100 can be electrically connected toelectrical components in the camera 3101.

Still further, in one embodiment, the connector at the end of the hinge3108 enables connection of a variety of different peripheral devices tothe pair of glasses 3100. For example, the different peripheral devices(portable electronic devices) can be the camera, a memory card, or amedia player. In one embodiment, electrical components integral with thepair of glasses 3100 can be shared by the different peripheralcomponents. The hinge 3108 is not necessary in other embodiments, seeFIGS. 28F-28H, where a connector is attached or integral with a templeof a pair of glasses. If desired, the camera 3101 or other peripheraldevices can include in its structure a hinge or other mechanism topermit positioning the camera or other peripheral devices.

In still another embodiment, an angled or hinged adapter can be insertedbetween a connector attached to the pair of glasses 3100 and a connectorof the camera 3101 or other peripheral devices. The adapter can beelectrically functional or non-functional.

Regardless of the electrical components being utilized with the eyeglassframes, it may be desirable for the eyeglass frames to be substantiallybalanced in weight. In the event that electrical components are attachedand/or at least partially embedded in one of the temples of the eyeglassframe, the other of the temples can include other electrical componentsor even a counter weight so that the eyeglass frame can be substantiallybalanced.

A number of embodiments in the invention can be implemented in software,hardware or a combination of hardware and software. A number ofembodiments of the invention can also be embodied as computer readablecode on a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium is anydata storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read bya computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium includeread-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, magnetic tape, opticaldata storage devices, and carrier waves. The computer readable mediumcan also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so thatthe computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributedfashion.

The present invention provides different embodiments of glasses that canbe applied to multiple functions. With a user wearing such a pair ofglasses, it would be more difficult for a third party to know thespecific function or reason the user is wearing the glasses for.Regarding the locations of the electrical components for the multiplefunctions, different embodiments range from all of the components in theglasses to the glasses primarily functioning as a headset.

FIG. 42 shows one embodiment of the invention with a pair of glasses4100 having speakers. The glasses 4100 include a first lens holder 4102and a second lens holder 4104. Both lens holders are for receivinglenses. The first lens holder 4102 has a first side and a second side.The second lens holder 4104 also has a first side and a second side. Thepair of glasses has a bridge element 4106. The bridge element 4106 iscoupled to the first side of the first lens holder 4102 and the secondside of the second lens holder 4104. In one embodiment, the lens holdersand the bridge element are not separate pieces, but are an integralpiece.

The pair of glasses 4100 also includes a first temple 4108 and a secondtemple 4110. The first temple 4108 is pivotally secured to the secondside of the first lens holder 4102 through a joint. And, the secondtemple 4110 is pivotally secured to the first side of the second lensholder 4104 through another joint.

In a number of embodiments, the glasses include one or more electricalcomponents partially or fully embedded in the glasses. An electricalcomponent can be a resistor, capacitor, inductor, transistor or otherelectrical part, other than just a conductor or a wire allowing currentto flow between or among electrical components. An electrical componentcan also be more complicated such as an electrical circuit or anintegrated circuit.

FIG. 42 shows one embodiment of the glasses 4100 with electricalcomponents that include two speakers, each at least partially embeddedin the glasses. The speakers can be used to enhance the hearing of theuser wearing the glasses. In one example, each speaker, such as speaker4112, is in one of the temples, such as temple 4110, of the glasses4100. Each speaker is closer to one end of the temple than the otherend. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 42 , each speaker is closer to theend of the temple that is in the vicinity of the lens holder or thehinge or the joint of the glasses, instead of the end that is typicallynot attached to a hinge. The end of a temple that is typically notattached to a hinge can be known as the free end of that temple. Thespeakers can be partially embedded in the glasses. For example, themouth of each speaker, where audio signals propagate from and wheresometimes there are small holes on a sheet of material, can be exposedand not totally covered up by the temple.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 42 , both speakers are embedded in theglasses, and the speakers output audio signals in the outward direction.In another embodiment, the speakers output audio signals in the inwarddirection. For example, the output of the speakers can be facinginwards, towards the user.

The speakers can be embedded in the glasses in a number of ways. Forexample, each speaker can be first assembled onto or electricallycoupled to a circuit board, which includes additional electricalcomponents for the glasses. The glasses can be made of plastic (e.g.,plastic frames). With the corresponding speaker, each circuit board canbe shaped to fit, for example, into a temple of the glasses. Eachcircuit board with a speaker is placed into a mold. Then, hot, moltenplastic is injection molded around each circuit board with the speakerto form the two temple pieces of the glasses. To reduce weight, the wallof the glasses can be made relatively thin through injection moldingtechniques.

In another embodiment, the glasses have metallic frames. For example,the frames can be made of Titanium, which is a relatively light metal.Also, Titanium is relatively non-conductive and strong, and is quiteimmune to corrosion. Further, Titanium can be anodized or heat colored.

For glasses with metallic frames, to prevent circuits from being shortedor to reduce leakage current, one embodiment provides an insulatinglayer between a circuit board in the glasses and the correspondingmetallic frame. One example of an insulting layer is a tape toencapsulate the electrical components. The tape is non-conducting so asto provide insulation and, to a certain degree, can also providemechanical stiffness. One way to make such a temple is to have twosheets of the metal die-stamped to form the two halves, or the two facesof a temple piece. A circuit board with a speaker is made to fit intothe space between the faces. Then, two die-cut pieces of tape can coverthe top and the bottom surfaces of the circuit board. The board and thespeaker with the tape are sandwiched between the faces to form thetemple. The tape can be double-sided sticky tapes, with one sidesticking to the circuit board, and the other side sticking to thetemple. An adhesive can be used to glue the two faces of the templepiece together.

In yet another embodiment, the frames are made of hard rubber. Theframes can be manufactured in an approach similar to injection moldingtechniques, with circuit boards and/or speakers inserted into the moldalong with the rubber at the time of molding.

Different types of speakers can be used, such as, standard,fixed-magnet/moving coil speakers; speakers with fixed-coil and a steeldiaphragm; piezoelectric speakers; and electrostatic speakers.

In one embodiment, the glasses further include a tube, such as a plastictube, extending from each speaker, such as tube 4114 from speaker 4112.Each tube serves to guide sound generated by its corresponding speakerto one of the ears of the user. In one embodiment, each tube extendsfrom its speaker to the opening of an ear canal of the user.

FIG. 43 shows an embodiment where a tube 4114 is located on the outsideof a temple 4110. In another embodiment, the tube can be on the insideof a temple.

In one embodiment, a tube can be rotated, such as from along the temple(behind a temple if the tube is on the inside of the temple) to beingdownward at an angle towards one of the ears of the user, such as theposition shown in FIG. 43 . To increase flexibility, the tube can beattached to a rotating disk 4116, which allows rotation about thecorresponding speaker.

In another embodiment, the tube is malleable. This allows the tube to beplaced in different positions.

In one embodiment, the length of the tube is adjustable. FIG. 44 showssuch an embodiment of a pair of glasses with a retractable tube 4118. Inthe figure, the tube is shown to be in its extended position. As anexample, the retractable tube 4118 can be retracted into thecorresponding temple. As another example, the retractable tube 4118 canretract on itself (e.g., telescoping).

In one approach, there also is a plug 4115 at the end of the tube 4114for inserting into an ear of the user, as shown in FIG. 43 . The plug4115 can be an ear bud. The plug 4115 can provide a cushion of foamrubber or other materials. Such materials give comfort and/or enhancesound coupling to the ear canal.

In one embodiment, each ear bud is individually made based on animpression of the user's corresponding ear canal. In another embodiment,each ear bud is custom fitted into the corresponding ear of the user.

In another approach, there is a funnel at the output of a speaker. FIG.45 shows the cross section of such a funnel from a speaker 4120 at atemple region of the glasses. As shown in FIG. 45 , the speaker 4120sits on a speaker frame 4122, and the speaker 4120 is electricallyconnected to a circuit board 4124. As sound is generated from thespeaker 4120, the sound propagates to a tube 4126 through a structure inthe shape of a funnel 4128. Such a structure can help guide the sound tothe tube 4126 (i.e., improved sound coupling). Also, FIG. 45 shows thetube 4126, which can be the tube 4114 shown in FIG. 43 , mounted ontothe temple region of the glasses with a circular lip 4130. Such a lip4130 allows the tube 4126 to rotate relative to the glasses. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 45 , the speaker 4120 is embedded in theglasses. Also, in FIG. 45 , the tube 4126 is at the front side of thespeaker 4120. In another embodiment, a tube can extend from the backside of the speaker to couple the sound from the speaker to an ear.

In the embodiment of the glasses with two speakers, the two speakers canalso be electrically connected by a conductor or an electrical wire,with the conductor linking the speakers through the glasses, such asthrough the lens holders of the glasses. FIGS. 46A-46B show anembodiment of the wire 4130, with FIG. 46A illustrating a hinge 4132 ofthe glasses in the extended position, and FIG. 46B illustrating thehinge 4132 partially closed. As shown in the two figures, the wire 4130is embedded in a temple 4134 to connect to the speaker in that temple.The wire 4130 extends from the temple 4134 to a lens holder 4136, andthen to the other temple of the glasses to connect to the speaker in theother temple.

Referring back to FIG. 42 , electrical components in the glasses canalso include at least one microphone 4098, which can be located at atemple 4110, closer to the hinge than the free end of that temple 4110.The microphone 4098 receives audio signals. For glasses with hearingenhancement capabilities, the audio signals are modified or enhanced (tobe further described below), and then sent to the speaker(s) in theglasses for the user to hear. In the embodiments that do not includeplugs or ear buds that plug the ear canals of the user, but may stillinclude tubes guiding sound from speakers to each ear, the user can hearboth the enhanced sound based on hearing enhanced electrical componentsand sound directly from the ambient environment.

In another embodiment, there can be two microphones. Each microphonecan, for example, be located close to one hinge of the glasses. Themicrophone close to the left hinge can be electrically connected to thespeaker at the left temple, and the microphone close to the right hingecan be electrically connected to the speaker at the right temple. Theone or more microphones can be directional, more preferential towardssignals in specific directions. For example, the microphone close to theleft hinge can be more preferential towards signals coming from theleft, and the microphone close to the right hinge more preferentialtowards signals from the right.

In one embodiment, to reduce the weight of the glasses and/or to enhancethe ease of aesthetic design of the glasses, some of the electricalcomponents are not in the glasses. Instead, they are in a base or aportable device carried or worn by the user. A number of embodimentsregarding a base have previously been described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/964,011, entitled “TETHERED ELECTRONICCOMPONENTS FOR EYEGLASSES,” and filed Oct. 12, 2004, which is herebyincorporated by reference. In embodiments with the base, the base istethered, or connected with a wire, to the glasses. In embodiments withthe portable device, the portable device is electronically coupled tothe glasses or to the base (if there is a base) wirelessly or through awired connection.

FIG. 47 shows one embodiment of the invention with a pair of glasses4150 having speakers. The glasses 4150 can be wirelessly coupled to aportable device 4152. In this embodiment, there can also be one or moremicrophones 4154 wirelessly coupled to the glasses. As an example, FIG.47 shows the microphone 4154 in a package that can include a clip 4156to attach the microphone 4154 to a piece of clothing of the user, suchas to one of the lapels on a jacket of the user. In such a wirelessembodiment, the glasses 4150 also include a wireless transceiver forconnection to the portable device 4152 and/or the microphone 4156.

FIGS. 48A-48B show examples of different embodiments illustrating someof the electrical components for wireless connections to, or for awireless transceiver in, a pair of glasses. In FIG. 48A, a highfrequency or RF antenna 4170 wirelessly captures high frequency or RFsignals for RF transceiver circuits 4172. If the transceiver circuitsare for a conventional superheterodyne system, the transceiver circuits4172 mix the RF signals down to IF signals. Then the IF signals areprocessed by baseband circuits to form digital outputs. Digital outputsfrom the baseband circuits are coupled to a processor 4174 for furtherprocessing. The baseband circuits can be incorporated in the processor,or can be separate from and coupled to the processor. Outputs from theprocessor 4174 are fed to a D-to-A converter 4176 to generate audiosignals for a speaker 4178.

Similarly, audio analog signals from a microphone 4180 can be fed to anA-to-D converter 4182 to generate digital signals for the processor 4174and then to the baseband circuits and the RF transceiver circuits 4172.The digital signals are then up-converted by the RF transceiver circuits4172 and wirelessly transmitted by the antenna 4170.

In another embodiment, digital conversion is moved closer to theantenna. For example, instead of mixing RF into IF signals, the RFtransceiver circuits directly perform digital conversion from the RFsignals.

High frequency filters can be used at the front end of the RFtransceiver circuits for the RF signals. In one embodiment, to savespace, FBAR (film bulk acoustic resonator) duplexer is employed. A setof piezoelectric filters can be used to separate incoming and outgoingsignals. For cell phone operation (which will be further describedbelow), such filters can enable a user to hear and speak simultaneously.

FIG. 48B shows another example of some of the electrical components inor tethered to a pair of glasses for wireless connections. Thisembodiment does not depend on digitizing signals. A speaker 4190 and amicrophone 4192 are connected to an analog interface circuit 4194, whichis coupled to a RF transceiver circuit 4196 and an antenna 4198. For thespeaker application, the transceiver circuit 4196 converts the RFsignals down into IF signals, which are converted by the analoginterface circuit 4194 into analog signals for the speaker 4190.Similarly, for the microphone application, its analog signals areconverted into the IF signals by the analog interface circuit 4194 to beup converted by the RF transceiver circuits 4196 into RF signals for theantenna 4198. These types of wireless connection circuitry are suitable,such as, for simple radios, analog cell phones, CB radios,walkee-talkees, police radios, intercom systems, or hearing enhancementapplications.

Note that in the above examples shown in FIGS. 47A-47B, signals from themicrophones are transmitted by a wired connection, instead of a wirelessconnection.

As described above, in different embodiments, some of the electricalcomponents are not in the glasses. Instead, they are in a base or aportable device, which can be carried by the user. The portable devicecan be electrically coupled to the glasses through a wired connection.In such approaches, the glasses also include at least one connector toreceive an electrical wire from the base or the portable device. Theconnector can be at the free end of one of the temples of the glasses,or the connector can be at another location of the glasses. Differenttypes of standard or non-standard connectors can be used and havepreviously been described in U.S. Provisional Application No.60/583,169, filed on Jun. 26, 2004, which is hereby incorporated byreference.

In one embodiment, a standard cylindrical plug connector is located atone end of a temple. From a different perspective, the temple moldsaround the end of the plug. FIG. 49 shows one such embodiment. The plug4220 can be a standard audio connector or a 3-wire or three terminalplug, such as a 3.5 mm male stereo mini-phone plug. The 3 wires for sucha plug are typically one for ground, the other two applicable for twosignals, such as signals for two speakers to create stereo effects. FIG.49 also shows the three wires 4222, 4224 and 4226, inside the temple,extended from the plug 4220. These wires are for connection toelectrical components in the glasses.

In one embodiment, the cylindrical plug 4220 shown in FIG. 49 can becovered, such as with a cap or a cover, to protect, encapsulate orshroud the plug 4220. Or, at least a portion of the plug is covered.Such covering can be for esthetic reasons, or can be to prevent the plug4220 from scratching the face of the user (if the plug has relativelysharp edges) when the user is putting on the pair of glasses.

Instead of a three terminal plug, other types of standard cylindricalplugs applicable to different embodiments of the present inventioninclude, for example, a serial connector with 3 pins, typically one forground, one for transmitting data (Tx) and the third for receiving data(Rx); or a 2-wire connector, one served as ground, the other forcarrying signals, such as power and modulated signals.

Instead of a standard connector, a connector can be a non-standardconnector. FIG. 42 shows a non-standard connector 4113 at the free endof one of the temples 4110. Instead of having a connector at the freeend of a temple, a connector can be at another location of the glasses.FIG. 50 shows an example of a non-standard connector 4230. The connector4230 includes one or more conductive pads, 4232 and 4234, on the topside of a temple 4236. The connector 4230 is designed to receive anotherconnector 4240 that grabs onto or attaches around the side of thetemple. There can be an indentation 4242 on the temple 4236 to receivethe other connector 4240. The other connector 4240 can include a top4244 and a bottom 4246 clip. There are a number of conductive pads orsheets inside the other connector 4240. The indentation 4242 providesalignment for connection. When attachment is at the indentation 4242,the conductive pads, 4232 and 4234, at the temple 4236 will be incontact with the conductive pads or sheets in the other connector 4240.There can also be another indentation 4248 at the temple 4236 to receivethe bottom clip 4246. This can further enhance the alignment process andassist with securing the connection.

In FIG. 50 , the other connector 4240 is tethered to a plug 4250, whichcan be inserted into a portable device 4252. The portable device 4252,for example, can be a cell phone. The portable device can includepersonal digital assistant (PDA) functionalities. This type ofnon-standard clip-type connector could be relatively easily applied tothe temple with one hand, for example, while the user is driving a car.

In the wired embodiment shown in FIG. 50 , a microphone does not have tobe in the glasses. As shown in FIG. 50 , a microphone 4254 can beattached to the wire 4256 that connects the glasses to the portabledevice 4252.

FIG. 51 shows one embodiment of the invention with a pair of glasses4260 having a microphone 4262 coupled to a wire. The wire is connectedto a portable device 4264 through a plug 4266, and to the glasses 4260through a jack 4268. The portable device 4264 can be in a shirt pocketas shown. There can also be a clip 4265 to attach the wire to an articleof clothing worn by the user.

In one embodiment, the glasses include electrical components for hearingenhancement functionalities. The electrical components enhance audiosignals, such as audio signals received by a microphone at the glasses.Then the enhanced signals are sent to the speakers for the user to hear.In one embodiment, the hearing-enhancing electrical components include aprocessor. The processor can be the processor 4174 shown in FIG. 48A. Inthis embodiment, the hearing-enhancing functionalities are performedthrough digitizing the corresponding audio signals. Then the processor,using digital signal processing techniques, operates on the digitizedsignals, such as boosting specific frequency bands.

In another embodiment, the hearing enhancing functionalities areprovided by analog filter circuits. For example, analog filter circuits,using analog processing techniques, operate on the audio signals, suchas boosting specific frequency bands.

In one embodiment, one hearing enhancement function includes amplifyingthe audio signals received in a frequency range between 500 Hz to 8 kHz.Typically, a user's hearing impairment is not the same across all audiofrequencies. For example, in English, the user might be able to easilypick up the sound of vowels, but not the sound of consonants, such as“S” and “P”. FIG. 52 shows a number of embodiments regardingfrequency-dependent amplification of the received audio signals.

One approach for frequency-dependent amplification focuses on amplifyingthe higher audio frequency ranges. This approach assumes that hearingdegradation typically starts at the higher audio frequencies, such asabove 2 to 3 kHz. Hearing may need more assistance at the higher audiofrequency range. For example, the audio signals received by a microphonecan be amplified by 30 dB in the frequency range from 2 kHz to 4 kHz. Oraround the entrance of the ear, the audio signals in that frequencyrange can be amplified to reach sound pressure level (“SPL”) to about 80dB. For lower audio frequencies, such as below 2 kHz, the amplificationcan be lower, such as 10 dB. Or for frequencies lower than 500 Hz, themaximum SPL does not have to be higher than 55 dB.

Another frequency-dependent amplification approach focuses on amplifyingan audio frequency range that typically contains most of the informationin everyday communication. For example, about 70% of the information ineveryday human communication can be within the frequency range of 1 to 2kHz. The frequency range that is selected to be amplified can be such afrequency range. Other frequency ranges are not selected foramplification.

There are benefits in embodiments where the ear canal remains open, withno plug inserted into the ear. For example, the user can be hearing theaudio signals directly from the sender (i.e., without assistanceprovided by the hearing enhancement electrical components). If theembodiments further implement frequency-dependent amplification, forfrequencies not within the ranges selected for amplification, the usercan hear those signals directly from the sender. Lower frequencies, suchas those below 2 kHz, are typically louder. Also, frequencies in therange, such as from 2000-3000 Hz, are typically in the natural resonanceof the ear canal, which is typically around 2700 Hz. As a result, theintensity of these frequencies would be increased by about 15 dB.Further, with no plug inserted into the ear, there is typically noocclusion effect due to, for example, the user's own voice.

However, in embodiments with the ear canal not plugged/blocked/covered,signal processing speed of the frequency enhancement electricalcomponents can be important. In such embodiments, the user can behearing the audio signals both from the sender and the glasses'speakers. To prevent echoing effect, signal processing speed for hearingenhancement cannot be too low. Typically, the user would not be able todistinguish two identical sets of audio signals if the difference inarrival times of the two signals is below a certain delay time, such as10 milliseconds. In one embodiment, the hearing enhancement signalprocessing speed is faster than such a delay time.

In one embodiment, the user has the option of manually changing theamplification of the system. The system can have a general volumecontroller that allows the user to adjust the output power of thespeaker. This adjustment can also be across certain frequency bands. Forexample, there can be three volume controls, each for a selectedfrequency band.

In another approach, amplification across frequencies is tailored to thehearing needs of the user. This tailoring can be performed throughcalibration. FIG. 53 shows a number of embodiments regarding calibrationof a user's hearing, for example, across various frequencies and/or fordifferent amount of amplification. Calibration enables the glasses todetermine (e.g., estimate) the hearing sensitivity of the user. Throughcalibration, the user's hearing profile can be generated.

The user can perform the calibration by himself/herself. For example,the audio frequencies are separated into different bands. The glassesgenerate different SPL at each band. The specific power level that theuser feels most comfortable would be the power level for that band.Alternatively, the glasses could generate different tones in differentfrequency bands. The user could compare the tones and rate the perceivedloudness. In this process, the glasses can prompt the user and lead himthrough the process interactively. Based on the measurements, theglasses could create a calibration curve, which becomes the personalhearing profile for that user. After calibration, signals received indifferent bands, such as by a microphone in the glasses, will beamplified or attenuated according to the hearing profile.

In another embodiment, calibration can be done through a web site. Theweb site can guide the user through the calibration process. The usercan be sitting in front of a computer terminal that is connected throughthe Internet to the web site. The terminal includes a headset thatproduces audio sounds. Alternatively, the user could be wearing theglasses that are connected through a cable to the sound card of thecomputer. The headset (or the glasses) generates different SPL atdifferent frequency bands to test the user's hearing. The specific powerlevel that the user feels most comfortable would be the power level atthat band for the user. After testing is done for all of the bands,based on the power levels for each band, the web site creates and storesthe user's personal hearing profile. Alternatively, the calibrationprocedure could be done off-line, with software provided on a storagedevice, such as a disc. The software could be installed on the user'scomputer. After installation, the software can guide the user throughthe calibration process.

Note that the different calibration processes can also be done by athird party, such as an audiologist, for the user.

The user's hearing profile, which typically is represented as digitaldata, can be stored in the glasses, in a base, or in a portable device.After calibration, the hearing profile can be downloaded, from, forexample, the above described terminal, into the glasses wirelessly, suchas through Bluetooth, infrared or other wirelessly interconnectiontechnologies, or through a wired connection. The hearing profile canalternatively be stored in a portable media storage device, such as amemory stick. The memory stick could be inserted into the glasses, thebase, the portable device, or some other audio generating device, whichdesires to access the hearing profile and personalizes the amplificationacross frequencies for the user.

The glasses (or the base, or the portable device) can also periodicallyalert the user for re-calibration. The period can be, for example, oncea year. Also, the calibration can be done in stages so that it is lessonerous and/or less obvious that the user is wearing a hearing enhancingdevice.

In another embodiment, there can be many pairs of glasses. Each pairamplifies the received audio signals in a preset frequency range by apreset amount. For example, two pairs amplify two respectively differentpreset frequency ranges by 20 dB. In another set, each pair providesdifferent amount of amplification for the received audio signals in thesame preset frequency range. For example, the different amount ofamplification ranges from 20 to 40 dB at 5 dB intervals for the presetfrequency range of 2500 to 4000 Hz. At a store, a consumer can try outdifferent glasses with different preset amplifications at the same ordifferent preset frequency ranges, before buying the one the consumerprefers.

In another embodiment, there is an assortment of standard hearingprofiles, such as 20 or so. The user would just pick the one that soundsbest.

If the glasses include hearing enhancement capabilities, the hearingenhancement functions might be on continuously for a long duration oftime, power consumption can be an issue. In yet another embodiment, theglasses also include electrical components that are for managing powerconsumption of other electrical components in the glasses, such as thecomponents to enhance hearing or other functionalities in the glasses.The electrical component can be a power controller, a microprocessor, orthe processor 4174 in FIG. 48A. Such glasses can include powermanagement software applications/processes to manage power consumptionof the glasses.

FIG. 54 shows a number of embodiments for managing power consumption ofthe glasses. One embodiment includes a manual on/off switch, whichallows the user to manually turn off the electrical components in theglasses as he desires. The on/off switch may not have to be on theglasses. It can be on a base or a portable device tethered to theglasses.

The operation of the electrical components can be on-demand. Forexample, the on/off switch can be voice activated. The glasses aretrained to recognize specific recitation, such as specific sentences orphrases, and/or the user's voice. To illustrate, when the user sayssentences like any of the following, the hearing enhancementcapabilities would be automatically turned from the sleep mode to theactive mode: What did you say? Louder. You said what?

In another embodiment of on-demand power management, the glasses canidentify noise (e.g., background noise), as opposed to audio signalswith information. To illustrate, if the audio signals across broad audiofrequency ranges are flat (not deviate more than a preset thresholdamount), the glasses could assume that the received audio signals arenoise. In another approach, if the average SPL of the received audiosignals is below a certain level, such as 40 dB, the glasses wouldassume that there are no audio signals worth amplifying. In yet anotherembodiment, when the amplitude or the power level of the received audiosignals is below a certain threshold for a duration of time, at leastsome of the electrical components in the glasses can be deactivated.This duration of time can be adjustable, and can be, for example, 10seconds or 10 minutes. In another approach, only when thesignal-to-noise ratio of the audio signals in the ambient is above apreset threshold, would the deactivated electrical components beactivated (i.e., awakened from the sleep mode, the reduced power mode orthe standby mode). In any case, to deactivate, the glasses or thehearing enhancement capabilities can be placed into a sleep mode, areduced power mode or a standby mode.

Another approach to manage power consumption can make use of adirectional microphone. This approach can improve the signal-to-noiseratio. The gain at specific directions of such a microphone can be 20 dBhigher than omni-directional microphones. The direction of thedirectional microphone can vary with application. However, in oneembodiment, the direction of the directional microphone can be pointingforward or outward away from the user. The assumption is that the usertypically faces the sender of the message, and thus it is the audiosignals in front of the user that should be enhanced.

In yet another embodiment of power management, the amplification of theglasses on at least a range of frequencies depends on the ambient powerlevel, or the noise level of the environment of the glasses. Oneapproach to measure the noise level is to measure the average SPL atgaps of the audio signals. For example, a person asks the user thefollowing question, “Have you left your heart in San Francisco?”Typically, there are gaps between every two words or between sentencesor phrases. The glasses measure, for example, the root mean square(“rms”) value of the power in each of the gaps, and can calculateanother average among all of the rms values to determine the noiselevel. In one embodiment, the glasses increase the amplification so asto ensure that the average power of the output audio signals by itsspeaker(s) is higher than the noise level by a certain degree. Forexample, the average SPL of the output audio signals from the glasses is20 dB above the noise level.

In another embodiment, if the average power level of the environment orthe ambient noise level is higher than a preset threshold value, signalamplification is reduced. This average power level can include all theaudio signals received by, such as the microphone(s) of the glasses. Therationale is that if the environment is very noisy, it would bedifficult for the user to hear the audio signals from the other personanyway. As a result, the glasses should not keep on amplifying the audiosignals independent of the environment. To illustrate, if the averagepower level of the environment is more than 75 dB, hearing enhancementamplification is reduced, such as to 0 dB.

In yet another embodiment, the glasses further include automaticactivation/deactivation mechanism controlled by a sensor that determineswhether the user is wearing the eyeglasses. A number of such being-wornsensor embodiments have previously been described, such as in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/078,855, filed Mar. 11, 2005, entitled,“EYEWEAR WITH RADIATION DETECTION SYSTEM,” which is hereby incorporatedby reference.

A number of embodiments have been described on hearing enhancement. Inother embodiments, at least one electrical component in the glasses isfor generating audio signals that do not originate from signals capturedby the microphone(s) in the glasses. These audio signals can be known asother audio signals. FIG. 55 shows different embodiments of the sourcesof such other audio signals. These signals can originate from relativelyprivate sources or public sources.

In one example of signals from private sources, the other audio signalsoriginate from a phone call received by the glasses. Such a pair ofglasses can include wireless communications electrical components of aphone. The phone can be a mobile telephone, a cordless phone, a speakerphone, a CB radio, a walkee-talkee, an intercom system or other types ofphone. The wireless communications electrical components can be locatedin at least one of the temples of the glasses. Some of the electricalcomponents of the phone can be in a base or in a portable device wiredor wirelessly coupled to the glasses. The glasses can pick up signalsfrom a caller, and the speaker(s) in the glasses produce the audiosignals, or a representation of the audio signals, from the caller.

There can be an operation indicator on the frame of the glasses toindicate that there is an incoming call. The indicator can be based on,for example, sound, light or vibration. In one embodiment, theindication is based on light, and is located on the inside of a templeclose to the hinge of that temple. Such an operation indicator can beimplemented in a variety of ways, such as with a light emitting diode(LED). There can be one LED coupling to more than one optical fiber,with each optical fiber guiding the light from the LED to differentareas of the frame. In the case of a LED, the operation indicator is alight source, and can produce light of the color of the LED. In anotherembodiment, the operation indicator could represent a small textdisplay, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). The indicator can alsobe a signal light.

In one embodiment, activation/deactivation of the phone is based onwhether an incoming call is present. For example, on receiving anincoming call, the glasses can automatically activate (or wake-up) toengage in wireless communication. Activation/deactivation can also betriggered by a button provided on the frame of the glasses. The buttoncan serve to accept or drop a call. One advantage of providingactivation/deactivation is that the glasses are able to be power managedso that power consumption is reduced and the life of power sources, suchas battery life, is extended.

FIG. 56 is a flow diagram of call processing 4300 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The call processing is performed usingglasses disclosed in different embodiments that have wirelesscommunication capabilities. For example, the glasses can be based on theglasses shown in FIG. 42 or 50 .

The call processing begins with a decision 4302 that determines whethera call is incoming. When the decision determines that a call is notincoming, then the call processing waits for such a call. Once thedecision 4302 determines that a call is incoming, the glasses areactivated 4308. Here, the wireless communications capability of theglasses is activated (e.g., powered-up, enabled, or woken-up). The userof the glasses is then notified 4310 of the incoming call. In oneembodiment, the notification to the user of the incoming call can beachieved by an audio sound, such as a ringer, produced by the glasses(via a speaker). Alternatively, the user of the glasses could benotified by a vibration (such as by a base tethered to the glasses), ora visual (e.g., light) indication provided by the glasses.

A decision 4312 then determines whether the incoming call is to beanswered. For example, the user can push a button to indicate that theuser wants to answer the call. When the decision 4312 determines thatthe incoming call is not to be answered, the glasses can activate avoice message informing the caller to leave a message 4314 orinstructing the caller as to the unavailability of the recipient.

On the other hand, when the decision 4312 determines that the incomingcall is to be answered, the call can be answered 4316 at the glasses.The user of the glasses is accordingly able to communicate 4320 with thecaller by way of the glasses and, thus, in a hands-free manner.

A decision 4322 then determines whether the call is over (completed).When the decision 4322 determines that the call is not over, the callprocessing returns to repeat the operation 4320 and subsequentoperations so that the call can continue. On the other hand, when thedecision 4322 determines that the call is over, then the glasses can bedeactivated 4324, and the call is ended. The deactivation 4324 of theglasses can place the glasses in a reduced-power mode. For example, thedeactivation 4324 can power-down, disable, or sleep the wirelesscommunication capabilities (e.g., circuitry) of the glasses. Followingthe operations, the call processing for the particular call ends.

In an embodiment where the glasses operate as a wireless headset of aportable device (e.g. a cell phone), a wireless link can be establishedbetween the headset and the portable device if the incoming call is tobe answered. The wireless link is, for example, a radio communicationlink such as utilized with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi networks. Thereafter,communication information associated with the call can be exchanged overthe wireless link. The portable device receives the incoming call, andcommunicates wirelessly to the glasses such that communicationinformation is provided to the user via the glasses. When the decisiondetermines that the call is over and the glasses are deactivated, thewireless link is also ended 4326.

Regarding the hearing enhancing capabilities described, in oneembodiment, when there is an incoming call, hearing enhancedcapabilities are deactivated, and the glasses receives the incomingcall. In another embodiment, when the user wants to receive the incomingcall, one or more embodiments of the hearing enhanced capabilitiesenhance the audio signals from the incoming call.

One advantage of cell phones is that you can make calls anywhere you canget a signal. However, one disadvantage is that you might be making acall in a noisy environment. In one embodiment, the glasses also includeelectrical components for noise cancellation. Such noise cancellationfunctionalities can be activated during a phone conversation.

In one approach, noise cancellation is achieved through a first and asecond directional microphones. The first one points at the user'smouth, and the second one points away. For example, the first one can beat one of the hinges as shown in FIG. 42 , whose directionality favorssound arriving from the user. There can also be a tube from the firstmicrophone to or towards the mouth of the user, to guide the sound fromthe mouth to the microphone. The second microphone can be in thevicinity of the other hinge, whose directionality favors sound arrivingin front of or outside of the user. Signals received from the secondmicrophone are subtracted from signals received from the firstmicrophone before the audio signals are further processed fortransmission as the message from the user.

Referring back to FIG. 55 , other examples of audio signals originatingfrom private sources include the other audio signals originating fromdifferent types of audio players, such as televisions, stereo systems,media asset players, or radios. The audio players can be in the glasses.In other embodiments, at least some of the electrical components of theaudio players can be in a base tethered to the glasses, or in a portabledevice wired or wirelessly coupled to the glasses. For example, theother audio signals can originate from a portable device, which mightproduce, receive or play audio content. The audio content is thentransmitted to the eyeglasses in a wired or wireless manner. Theeyeglasses serve as a receiver of the audio content from the portabledevice and reproduce the audio signals for the user.

The glasses with the call processing ability perform two-waycommunications. In the embodiments of the glasses operating as audioplayers, the glasses perform one-way communications (or at leastsubstantially one-way communications).

As an example of audio player being a stereo system, a pair of glassesincludes electrical components of a headset for wirelessly receivingaudio signals. Assume the user is working in the backyard and the stereosystem is in the living room. The music from the stereo can bewirelessly transmitted to the glasses or to a portable unit carried bythe user, which can re-transmit the music to the glasses wired orwirelessly. The speakers in the glasses can generate the music for theuser to enjoy. Based on this technique, the user can enjoy the musicwithout the need to crank up the volume of the stereo system.

In another example of an audio player, a pair of glasses includes amultimedia asset player, such as a MP3 player.

FIG. 57 shows some of the electrical components for an MP3 player 4340according to one embodiment of the invention. The player 4340 includes aspeaker 4342 and a data bus 4343, which facilitates data transfer among,for example, a processor 4344, a storage device 4345, and acoder/decoder (CODEC) 4346. The processor 4344, which can be amicroprocessor or controller, controls the operation of the player 4340.The storage device 4345 stores the multimedia assets, such as MP3 files,or other types of media data that are appropriately formatted. In oneexample, the MP3 files are digitally encoded songs or other types ofaudio signals. The storage device 4345 can include a number of separatestorage elements. For example, the device 4345 can be a flash memorydevice, or a minidisk device, and a cache, which can improve the accesstime and reduce power consumption of the storage device 4345. Thestorage device 4345 typically also includes a Read-Only Memory (ROM),which stores programs, utilities or processes to be executed in anon-volatile manner. The player 4340 can also include a RAM, such as forthe cache.

Once a media asset, such as a song, is selected to be played, theprocessor 4344 supplies the asset to the CODEC 4346, which decompressesthe asset and produces analog output signals for the speaker 4342. Inone embodiment, the bus 4343 is also coupled to an input/output device4347, which could, for example, allow a user to upload songs in theglasses to an external instrument, such as a computer; or download songsfrom the instrument to the glasses.

There are different approaches to select a song. In one embodiment, themedia assets/songs can be categorized in the asset player. Thecategorization can be based on the names of artists, albums and/orsongs. The categorization can be hierarchical, with multiple levels inthe hierarchy. To illustrate, assume that there are three levels. Thetop level can be the name of a singer; the second level can be the timeperiods when the assets were produced, and the third level can be thenames of the songs. The entries, such as the name of the singer, can beabbreviated. There can be a small display and a control knob to allow auser to scroll down entries in a level. By pushing the knob, the userselects an entry, which can lead the user to a lower level. There can bean entry for moving up a level also. In another embodiment, the displayis a touch-screen display, allowing entries to be entered directly onthe display. In yet another embodiment, entries can be selected based onvoice recognition.

All of the electrical components of the asset player, such as the MP3player, do not have to be fully embedded in the glasses. In oneembodiment, at least a portion of the MP3 player can be coupled to theglasses through a connector at the glasses. FIG. 58 shows a cardconnector 4350 to receive a card 4352, such as a removable media card(e.g., memory card). There can be a cover 4354 to secure the media cardin place after it is inserted into the card connector. The cover 4354can also protect the card once the card is in the card connector. Theconnector 4350 can be, for example, at a broad side of a temple 4356, asshown in the figure. The card can be for an MP3 player. It can be amemory card for a MP3 player, with the speaker of the player in thetemple 4356. The speaker can play the multimedia assets accessed fromthe card through the connector. In another embodiment, some of theelectrical components of the different types of audio players can be ina portable device, wired or wirelessly coupled to the glasses.

FIG. 42 shows two speakers, one speaker at one of the temples. Inembodiments regarding generating other audio signals, the two speakerscan provide stereo effects. There can also be more than one speaker ateach temple. The glasses can provide four or more speakers to give ahigh fidelity sound or a surround sound effect. For example, each templecan include one speaker close to the hinge, and one speaker close to thetip of that temple or its temple tip. In one embodiment, a temple tip isseparable from its temple. In other words, the temple tip is areplaceable part. In another embodiment, a temple tip is an integralpart of its temple. The different speakers can generate differentportions or sections of the sound. Further, if a base or a portableelectronic device is coupled to the glasses, the base or the portableelectronic device can contain another speaker, such as a base or wooferspeaker. Such embodiments enable the glasses to provide a personalhigh-fidelity sound or a surround-sound environment.

In one embodiment, the audio player can be a radio. The glasses includethe electrical components of a radio. There can also be switches on theglasses to control the operation of the radio. For example, one switchis an on/off switch, which can also change the volume of the radio. Thisswitch can be a roller switch or can be based on two switches (one formoving up and the other moving down). Another switch can be a pushbutton, which when pushed will reset the radio to a specific station,such as 88 MHz. A third switch is another push button, which when pushedwill scan up to the next station, relative to the previous station.Different types of control knobs or switches will be further describedbelow.

In one embodiment, the radio is a personalized radio that ispersonalized to the user. For example, the radio keeps track of at leastone preference of the user regarding audio signals from the radioreceived by the user. FIG. 59 shows a process 4375 according to oneembodiment for a personalized radio. Initially, a pair of glassesaccording to the invention receives 4377 a piece of music from a radiostation. That piece of music is stored 4379 in a buffer or a temporarystorage area. This temporary storage area can be in the glasses ortethered/coupled to the glasses. The piece of music is also sent 4381 toa speaker in the glasses.

Assume that the user likes the music. Based on a preference indicator,the user shows his preference. After the glasses receive 4383 anindication that the user likes the music, the glasses determine 4385 thesong corresponding to the indication. That piece of music can then bemoved 4387 from the buffer to a permanent storage area, such as into aflash memory. The beginning and the end of the piece of music can beidentified based on additional information embedded with the piece ofmusic. There can be meta data tied to the music keeping such additionalinformation. With the piece of music stored in the permanent storage,the user can subsequently access it as desired.

There are different ways to determine the song or the content beingplayed by the radio being the one preferred by the user. For example,one way/rule is that when the user pushes a specific button (apreference button) on the glasses or voices his preference, the song (ormedia asset or media file) that is being played at that point in time isthe one the user likes. Since an operating system can be responsible tosend the music to the speaker, the operating system knows what song isbeing played at that time. Based on the rule, the song of preference isdetermined when the button is pushed. Another rule is that when the usershows his preference, and there is no song being played at thatinstance, the song immediately preceding the break is the song ofpreference.

In another embodiment, the glasses can get 4389 an identification forthe song the user likes. For example, the glasses can ask the user toprovide an identification for the piece of music. This identificationcan be the type of music, the name of the singer/artist, the name of themusic, the name of the album or other identification. In anotherembodiment, there can be meta data embedded, such as in the beginningpart of the music (or media asset). Having such meta data embedded isnot uncommon for music in digital format. The meta data can includeidentifications for the music. The glasses can get such identification.Based on the identification, the song is categorized 4391 accordingly,such as grouped with other songs having the same identification. Suchcategorization process would enhance the ease of accessing the song bythe user at a later time.

In one embodiment, when the user activates the different types of audioplayers, the hearing enhancement mode is deactivated. In anotherembodiment, when the user activates the different types of audioplayers, one or more features of the hearing enhancement capabilitiesoperate on the audio signals from the audio players. In other words,different embodiments of the hearing enhancement capabilities previouslydescribed can be activated or deactivated on the audio signals from thedifferent types of audio players.

Referring back to FIG. 55 , regarding public use, the audio signalsgenerated by the speakers can originate from a public source. The publicsource can be a source that generates the audio signals for many people,or for people in a public environment. For example, the user can be at aconference or a theater. In one embodiment, the glasses can be coupledto the conference microphone or the theater speaker wirelessly, and arecapable of capturing the audio signals therefrom. Again, the couplingcan be through a portable device wired or wirelessly connected to theglasses. Then the glasses re-generate the corresponding audio signalsfor the user. Again, different embodiments of the hearing enhancementcapabilities previously described can be activated or deactivated on theaudio signals from the public sources.

There can be one or more control knobs or switches at the glasses forcontrolling the operation(s) of the glasses. FIG. 60 shows a number ofattributes 4400 regarding control knobs. The knobs can be of differentphysical structure 4402. For example, a control knob can be a roller, aswitch or a push-button. A control knob serving as an up/down controllercan use two buttons (one for up and the other for down), or a roller(rolling in one direction being up and the other direction being down).

A control knob can include additional intelligence 4404. For example, apush-button control knob can serve different purposes depending on theduration the knob is being pushed. If a user pushes it for more thanthree seconds, the knob serves as an on-off toggle switch for theglasses. In another example, a knob can serve multiple purposes, and thespecific purpose depends on the number of times the knob is pushednon-stop.

A knob can also be programmed by a user. A user can connect the glassesto a computer and program the knob accordingly. For example, one canprogram a knob such that if the knob is pushed for more than threeseconds, the knob would serve as an on/off switch for the glasses.

The location 4406 of a control knob can vary for different applications.A control knob can be located on the glasses. A control knob can be onthe top, the side or the bottom of a temple of the glasses. A controlknob can be located at the inside of a temple facing the user.

Assume that there are a number of control knobs and all of them are onthe edges of a temple, except one. By being at a position substantiallydifferent from other control knobs, this knob can serve a specificpurpose. For example, it can be an on/off control knob for all of theelectrical components in the glasses.

In yet another embodiment, a control knob can be located in a portabledevice wired or wirelessly coupled to the glasses, or in a base tetheredto the glasses.

The number 4408 of control knobs can vary depending on operations. Forexample, there is an on/off control knob and a volume up/down controlknob. If the glasses are used for cell phone headset applications, inone embodiment, there is also an answer/hang-up control push-button. Ifthe glasses serve as a radio, in one embodiment, there is also a channelselection control knob, which can be an up/down controller, like twopush buttons. If the glasses serve as a CD player, in one embodiment,there is a play control knob, a stop control knob, and a skipforward/backward control knob. If the glasses serve as a multimediaasset player, such as a MP3 player, in one embodiment, there is askip-forward/backward-song control knob and a select-song-to-playcontrol knob.

In a number of embodiments described, a pair of glasses can servedifferent applications. For such embodiments, a switch on the glasses (abase or a portable device coupled to the glasses) can also servedifferent functions, depending on the application.

Different types of switches are applicable for different applications.Additional disclosures on switches are in U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 60/583,169, filed on Jun. 26, 2004, which is hereby incorporated byreference.

Regarding power sources for electrical components, in one embodiment,the power sources, which can be batteries and/or solar cells, are in theglasses. In another embodiment, one or more batteries can be insertedinto the glasses. The batteries can be of various sizes and types. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 61A, a coin battery 4420 (e.g. CR1025) can beinserted into the tip section or the free end of one of the temples4416. FIG. 61B shows the embodiment shown in FIG. 61A with a bigger coinbattery 4422 (e.g. CR2032) inserted into the slot. Since the size of thebattery is bigger than the size of the slot, a portion of the battery4422 sticks out of the slot. FIG. 61C shows another embodiment of theglasses that include a slot/cavity to receive a battery adapter 4426.The slot 4418 in FIG. 61A can be the same as the slot 4424 in FIG. 61C.The adapter 4426 can be the same size and shape of the battery shown inFIG. 61A, and with two terminals, just like the battery. However, theadapter, by itself, is not an energy source. The adapter is connected toa cable 4428, with at least two wires inside, one for each terminal ofthe adapter. The adapter 4426 is inserted into the cavity 4424 of theglasses, and is coupled through the cable 4428 to a case or a capsule4430 that holds a battery 4432. The two wires in the cable 4428 are forthe two terminals of the battery 4432. The size and capacity of thebattery held by the capsule can be bigger than the coin battery, andcould be less expensive than the coin battery. In one embodiment, thecapsule 4430 holds an AA battery. Note that in one approach, the templein FIG. 61C is the same as the temple in FIG. 61A. In yet anotherembodiment, the power sources are in a base or a portable deviceconnected to the glasses through a wire connection, and the powersources can be rechargeable.

In a number of embodiments, some of the electrical components forhearing enhancement and/or for generating other audio signals are in abase tethered to the glasses. In other embodiments, some of theelectrical components are in a portable device, wired or wirelesslycoupled to the glasses. In yet other embodiments, all of the electricalcomponents are in the glasses.

In different embodiments, the glasses can be a pair of sunglasses,auxiliary frames, fit-over glasses, prescription glasses, readingglasses, safety glasses, swim masks, or goggles, such as ski goggles.

In a number of embodiments, the frames of the glasses have more surfacearea than frames with minimal structure, such as those frames withlenses connected together by wires. For example, the temples of theglasses can have a taper profile. Each of the temples can be wider orbroader when it is close to its corresponding joint. In one embodiment,the temple is wider or broader by spanning across a wider or broaderarea longitudinally down, creating a bigger surface somewhat parallel tothe face of the user. FIG. 42 shows an example of such an embodiment.

In another embodiment, there can be a shield at least at one of theedges of each of the lens holders of the glasses. These shields can wraparound, or better conform to the profile of, the face of the wearer. Theshields can be opaque. There can be transparent or translucent windowson these shields. To illustrate, in fit-over sunglasses, when worn overa pair of prescription glasses, such shields can go over or cover atleast a portion of the pair of prescription glasses. Note that in oneembodiment, a pair of glasses does not have to include lenses.

A number of embodiments have been described with electrical componentsin the temples of the glasses. In yet another embodiment, at least oneelectrical component is in other parts of the glasses, such as in ashield, the bridge or a lens holder of the eyeglasses.

A number of embodiments of glasses have been described where the glassesinclude hearing enhancement capabilities and can generate one or moretypes of other audio signals. Note that electrical components for suchfunctionalities can be shared. For example, different functionalitiescan share the same power source, or the same processor/controller.

Though a number of embodiments of glasses have been described where theglasses with hearing enhancement capabilities also generate other audiosignals, different embodiments of the glasses only have hearingenhancement capabilities. In yet other embodiments, the glasses do nothave hearing enhancement capabilities, but generate other audio signals.

In one embodiment, the glasses function as a headset and are adaptablefor different applications, such as hearing enhancement, communication(e.g. phone operation) or listening to other audio signals (e.g. MP3operation). The user initially can use the glasses as the headset for aphone or an MP3 player. Later, as the user's hearing degrades, the usercan use the glasses as the headset for hearing enhancement or hearingboosting. In any event, when a person is using the headset, a thirdparty may not be able to tell whether the person is having his hearingenhanced, or listening to other audio signals.

With the glasses functioning as a headset, in one embodiment, theglasses can include a connector and two speakers, one at each temple,both electrically connected through a conductor embedded in the glasses.The conductor can be a wire, similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS.46A-46B. The connector can be located at the free end of one of thetemples, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 49 . The connector can bea standard connector, such as a 3-wire or three terminal plug, or a 3.5or 2.5 mm male stereo mini-phone plug. The three terminals can be forthe two speakers and ground, with both speakers sharing the same ground.In one approach, the positive terminal of the left speaker is connectedat the first terminal of the plug, the positive terminal of the rightspeaker is connected to the second terminal of the plug, and the groundterminals of the speakers are connected to the third terminal of theplug.

The plug at the glasses can be used to receive stereo signals for thetwo speakers. The stereo signals can be from a separate audio source,such as an MP3 player or a radio. There can be an audio cord that has amale stereo connector at one end and a female stereo connector at theother. The female connector of the cord is for receiving the plug at theglasses, while the male connector of the cord is for inserting into theheadset jack of the player or the radio.

The headset can be used as the headset for a cell phone. Phone calls canbe made with the headset using a headset-to-phone cord. FIGS. 62A-62Bshow two embodiments of such a cord. The cord includes a female stereomini-phone jack at one end and a male stereo mini-phone plug at theother end. The three terminals at the stereo mini-phone plug can bedesignated as the m (microphone), s (speaker), and g (ground) terminals.

FIG. 62A shows one approach 4450 for the wiring connections in aheadset-to-phone cord. One end of the cord can have a female stereomini-phone jack for connection to the plug 4452 at a temple tip 4454 ofa pair of glasses. The female jack is not shown in FIG. 62A. The otherend of the cord 4450 has a stereo plug 4456, with three terminals, the m4460, the s 4464 and the g 4462 terminals. The plug 4456 is forinserting into the headset jack of the phone. In the approach shown inFIG. 62A, the two speakers in the glasses are connected in series, andthe microphone 4458 for the phone is attached to the cord, similar tothe microphone 4254 shown in FIG. 50 .

Regarding wiring connections in the cord 4450, the microphone 4458 isconnected with wires between the m 4460 and the g 4462 terminals for theuser to speak into. Note that in this embodiment, the negative terminalof the microphone 4458 is extended through a wire to connect to theground terminal 4462 within the plug 4456. The positive terminal for onespeaker is connected to the s 4464 terminal, and the positive terminalfor the other speaker to the g 4462 terminal. The two negative terminalsof the two speakers are connected together (such as inside the glasses)to complete the circuit. In this embodiment, both speakers are connectedin series and the audio signals of the caller go through both of them.

FIG. 62B shows another approach 4470 for the wiring connections in aheadset-to-phone cord. In this approach, the two speakers in the glassesare connected in parallel. A microphone 4472 is connected between the m4474 and the g 4478 terminals. The negative terminal of the microphone4472 is extended through a wire to connect to the g 4478 terminal at alocation within the plug 4480. The positive terminals for both speakersare connected to the s 4476 terminal, and the negative terminals of bothspeakers to the g 4478 terminal. Again, the microphone 4472 is externalto the glasses and is attached to the cord 4470.

Based on such headset-to-phone cords, the glasses can be used as theheadset of a telephone, such as a cell phone. Also, based on theheadset-to-phone cords, the headset can be used for hearing enhancement,with the microphone in the cord, external to the glasses.

Note that the audio cord and the headset-to-phone cord can be combined.FIG. 63 shows a combined cord 4490 that can perform both functions. Theexample shown in FIG. 63 assumes the two speakers in the glasses beingconnected in parallel. Again the microphone is attached to the cord,external to the glasses.

As shown in FIG. 63 , one end of the cord can have a female mini-phonejack to be connected to the plug 4520 at a temple tip 4522 of a pair ofglasses. That female jack is not shown in FIG. 63 . The combined cord4490 includes a switch 4502. One switch position is to connect thespeakers to a stereo plug 4510. This is the position where the cord 4490functions as an audio cord. The other switch position is to connect thespeakers to a stereo plug 4516. This is the position where the cord 4490functions as a headset-to-phone cord.

With the switch 4502 in the audio cord position, the right 4498 and left4500 speaker terminals of the plug 4520 are connected to the right 4506and the left 4508 terminals of the male stereo connector 4510.

With the switch 4502 in the headset-to-phone cord position, the right4498 and left 4500 speaker terminals are connected to the s 4514terminal of the male stereo connector 4516. The microphone 4492 isconnected between the m 4494 and the g 4512 terminals of the stereo plug4516. When the plug 4516 is inserted into a phone jack, the negativeterminal of the microphone 4492 is connected to the ground of the phone.

Instead of having just one connector at the glasses, there can be twoconnectors. Each connector can be located at one of the temple tip, andeach connector can be connected to the speaker at that temple through,for example, a conductor (e.g. a wire) in the temple. In one embodiment,the connectors are standard 2.5 or 3.5 mm male mono mini phone plugs.Such glasses can be used to listen to stereo music based on amono-plugs-to-stereo-plug adapter cord. FIG. 64 shows one embodiment ofthe wiring connections of such an adapter cord 4550. At one end of theadapter cord, there are two female mono mini phone plugs. These plugsare not shown in the figure. Each plug connects to two wires, one signalwire and the other the ground wire. For example, a first female plugincludes signal wire 4552 and ground wire 4554; and the second femaleplug includes the signal wire 4556 and ground wire 4558. Each pair ofwires can be embedded inside a cable, with both cables forming part of alanyard. The other side of the cord 4550 is a male stereo mini phoneplug 4560. Of the 3 connections at the male stereo mini phone plug 4560,one can be connected to both of the ground wires 4554 and 4558, and forthe other two, one to each signal wires 4552 and 4556. The male stereoplug 4560 can be used to receive stereo signals for the two speakers, orcan be used as a plug to receive a telephone call, similar to the stereoplugs at the temples shown in FIGS. 62A-62B. In this example, the malestereo plug is not at the glasses, but is external to the glasses, suchas at the lanyard.

In the above examples on cords, the microphone, such as for a phone orfor hearing enhancement, is external to the glasses. In otherembodiments, the microphone is in the glasses. With the microphone inthe glasses, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 62A-62B, the plugs at thetemple tips are five terminal plugs, with the five terminals being thepositive or the signal terminal for the left speaker, the positive orthe signal terminal for the right speaker, the ground for both speakers,the microphone and the ground for the microphone. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 62A, the ground for the microphone 4458 is connected tothe positive terminal of the right speaker 4462 at the g 4462 terminalof the male stereo plug 4456 within the plug 4456. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 62B, the grounds of speakers and the ground of themicrophone are all connected together at the g 4478 terminal of the malestereo plug 4480.

With the microphone in the glasses, as for the embodiment shown in FIG.64 , the plugs at the temple tips are four terminal plugs, with the fourterminals being the signal terminal for a speaker, the ground for thespeaker, the signal terminal for a microphone and the ground for themicrophone. The male stereo plug 4560 is replaced by a five terminalplug, with the five terminals being the signal terminal for the leftspeaker, the signal terminal for the right speaker, the ground for bothspeakers, the signal terminal for the microphone and the ground for themicrophone.

In the above examples of the glasses functioning as a headset, onemicrophone is described. However, there can be more than one microphone.As described, additional microphones can provide additional benefits.For example, two microphones can be used for noise cancellationpurposes. In another example, two microphones can be for stereoreception purposes with one microphone on the left side and the other onthe right side of the user. For users with significant hearing loss inone of the ears, signals received from that ear can be routed to thespeaker in close vicinity to the other ear. In any event, if there aretwo microphones, with both microphones in the glasses, and if there isjust one connector at the glasses, the connector can have six terminals.The six terminals can be for the signal terminal for each of thespeakers and the signal terminals for the two microphones, the groundfor both speakers, and the ground for both microphones. If there are twoconnectors at the glasses, one at each of the temple tips, again withthe microphones in the glasses, the two connectors can be four terminalconnectors. Each set of the four terminals includes the signal terminalof the microphone and the signal terminal for the speaker at thattemple, and their separate grounds. In these embodiments with more thanone microphone, again, one can use a combined cord that has a switch sothat the glasses with the combined cord are applicable as a headset for,such as, a phone, a hearing booster and an audio player.

Regarding the locations of the speakers, the speakers can be in thetemples, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 42 . In anotherembodiment, as shown in FIG. 65 , a speaker 4577 can be in one 4575 ofthe temple tips.

In a number of embodiments, one or more speakers are embedded orpartially embedded in the glasses. In one embodiment, instead of in themain body of the glasses, a speaker is, for example, at the end of astub or an extension, extended from the main body of the glasses. Thestub can extend from one of the temples of the glasses. There can beelectrical wires inside the stubs to connect the speakers to otherelectrical component(s) in the main body of the glasses. The stubs canreplace a number of the tube embodiments described by bringing thespeakers closer to, or allowing the speakers to be inserted into, theear canal of the user. In such embodiments, there may not be separateear buds because the speakers themselves can be in structures that alsoserve as ear buds. Such ear buds with speakers can also be custom fittedinto the ears of the user. Such ear buds can include venting structuresto reduce to a certain degree the effects of occlusion.

In a number of embodiments with speakers embedded in the glasses, eachspeaker can have a tube extending towards an ear to guide the audiosignals. The tubes can be permanently attached to the glasses. Inanother embodiment, the tubes are detachable from the glasses. There canbe an extension 4579 with a hole at the glasses for a speaker 4577, asshown in FIG. 65 . An external tube 4581 can be attached to or insertedinto the extension 4579 for sound coupling into an ear. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 65 , the external tube 4581 extends from theback of an ear, over the top of the ear, and curls back towards theopening of the ear. Again, there can be an ear bud 4583 at the end ofthe external tube 4581 to further enhance sound coupling to an ear.Also, in this embodiment, a microphone 4585 can be in the glasses at aposition further away from the lens holders of the glasses.

With ear buds in the ears, it may not be necessary to have templesextend behind the ears. FIG. 66 shows an embodiment with each of thefree ends of the temples, such as the temple 4600, having an ear bud4602. The speaker for the ear bud 4602 can be in the structure of theear bud 4602. The speaker can be away from the ear bud, such as insidethe temple 4600 close to the hinge of the temple 4600, but is audiblycoupled to the ear bud. For example, the temple includes a tube or atubular structure inside the temple 4600 to guide the audio signals fromthe speaker to the ear bud 4602 for the ear. In this embodiment, amicrophone 4604 can be located in one of the temples further away fromthe free end of that temple. The pair of glasses can also function as aheadset. If the headset is connected to a portable device through a cord4610, the glasses include at least one connector to receive the cord4610. In one embodiment, the connector 4606 at the glasses is a femaleconnector. The cord 4610 for the portable device ends with a maleconnector 4608 to be inserted into female connector 4606 at the glasses.When the glasses are worn, both ear buds are inserted into the ears ofthe users. Together with the bridge (directly or indirectly through thenose pads) on the nose, and the ear buds inserted into the ears of theuser, the glasses can be stably held on the head of the user. In theembodiment of a wired headset with one connector, when worn, the cord4610 can drape behind one of the ears.

Regarding embodiments with ear buds at the free ends of the temples, inyet another embodiment, the ends of the temples are small and are madeof soft materials. If the user chooses to wear such glasses, but doesnot want to use the speakers, the user has the option to comfortablywear the glasses with the ear buds positioned above his ears.

In one embodiment, the length of the tubes or the stubs is not fixed,but is adjustable. The tubes or the stubs are retractable andextendable, for example, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 44 .The positions of the tubes or the stubs also can be changed, forexample, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 42 . Alternatively, thetemples can be made of malleable materials to allow some adjustment tofit different users. Glasses with such flexibilities, if applied to theembodiments with ear buds at the free ends of the temples, are eveneasier to adjust to fit different users, for example, because one mayonly need to adjust the distance between the ear buds and the lensholders of the glasses.

In yet in another embodiment, a pair of glasses functioning as a headsetwith a speaker and a microphone further includes a camera, as shown inFIG. 67 . The glasses 4650 include a temple 4652 that has a microphone4654, a speaker 4656 and a camera 4658 with a connector 4660. Theconnector 4660 is for connecting, for example, to a portable device thatincludes at least the power source for the glasses.

The camera 4658 is preferably a digital camera with an on/off switch4662. For example, the camera 4658 is a CCD camera with a CCD controllercoupled to a CCD chip, a CCD memory device and a lens.

In one embodiment, with the connector 4660 connected to the portabledevice, when the switch 4662 is pushed on, the CCD chip takes a picture.The charges in the CCD chip are digitized and transmitted through theconnector to the portable device, under the management of thecontroller. At least some of the charges can be temporarily stored inthe CCD memory device, for example, to accommodate the differences inspeed in taking pictures and sending the pictures to the portable devicethrough the connector. In this embodiment, images are permanently storedat the portable device.

In one embodiment, the glasses do not offer focusing capability. The CCDchip can be located, for example, at the focal point of the lens. Inanother embodiment, there is an image distance control knob. Forexample, a mechanical lever can be pre-programmed or pre-set to move thelens to one or more different positions. There can be just twopositions. One position can be for close-up shots and another fordistance shots, such as close-up being about 2 ft from the lens and thedistant being about 6 ft away; or close-up being about 8 inches away anddistant being about 2 ft away.

FIG. 67 shows one embodiment regarding the location of the camera 4658at the end of the temple or arm 4652 of the glasses next to the hinge ofthe temple. The lens of the camera faces forward. In this situation,what the user sees is substantially what the captured image would be. Inother words, in a general sense, what the user sees through the glassesis what the user gets, without the need for an additional view finder.With such an embodiment, it is relatively easy for a user to takepictures, hands-free, without the need for an additional strap forholding the camera.

The connector 4660 at the end of the glasses 4650 can be, for example, a4-terminal connector, one for ground, one for power and the other twofor transmit and receive signals. In another embodiment, the connector4660 can be a 3-terminal connector, with the power line and one of thesignal lines sharing one terminal.

Regarding the embodiment shown in FIG. 67 , the speaker 4656 can be inthe glasses, with a tube 4666 and an ear bud 4668, to help bring audiosignals to the user. In one embodiment, the tube 4666 can be rotated atits end where it connects to the glasses.

In one embodiment, the CCD with the CCD memory device and the CCDcontroller are on the same integrated circuit.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 67 also includes a microphone 4654. In oneembodiment, the CCD memory device also stores audio signals from themicrophone. For example, the memory device stores the last 15 seconds ofaudio signals. When the user takes a picture, the previous 15 seconds ofaudio signals can be coupled to the picture. The next 10 seconds ofaudio signals can also be coupled to the picture. The audio signals orthe digitized version of the audio signals can also be transmitted tothe portable device with the corresponding picture. In the future, ifthe user wants to view the picture, the audio signals can be played withthe picture at the same time.

The electrical components in the portable device for the glasses with acamera can be incorporated in the glasses. For example, the powersources can also be in the glasses and the glasses do not have toinclude a connector. In one embodiment, the glasses include non-volatilememory to store at least a number of pictures. In another embodiment,the glasses further include a connector to receive a memory card, suchas a flash memory device. One embodiment of such a removable card on apair of glasses is shown in FIG. 58 , where the card 4352 can be aremovable memory card. The card can be a standard memory card with a USBconnector. Pictures taken can be stored in the removable memory card.

In yet another embodiment for the glasses with a camera, the glasses donot include a speaker or a microphone. The glasses include a temple thathas a CCD controller coupled to a CCD chip, a CCD memory device and alens. The temple also includes an on/off switch with a connector. Theconnector is for connecting, for example, to a portable device thatincludes at least the power source for the camera.

Additional disclosure on camera in glasses can be found in U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/583,169, filed on Jun. 26, 2004, which ishereby incorporated by reference.

A number of electrical components have been described. They can be oncircuit boards, which can be made of flexible materials. They can be ona substrate. They can also be integrated into one or more integratedcircuits.

Although a number of embodiments have been described of glasses withhearing enhanced and/or other audio signal generation capabilities, inone embodiment, the hearing enhanced and/or other audio signalgeneration capabilities are in another apparatus. When a person is usingthat apparatus, a third party again would not be able to tell whetherthe person is having his hearing enhanced, or listening to other audiosignals. This again may be able to remove the stigma of wearing ahearing aid.

In a number of embodiments, the invention pertains to eyewear having anactivity monitoring capability. Activity, such as motion, steps ordistance, can be measured by an activity detector. The measured activitycan then be used in providing activity-related information to a user ofthe eyewear. Advantageously, the user of the eyewear is able to easilymonitor their degree of activity, without the need to carry a separateelectrical device. In other embodiments, the invention can provideactivity monitoring capability to products other than eyewear.

In one embodiment, the activity monitoring is provided by a pedometer. Apedometer can also herein be referred to as a pedometer system.

In one embodiment, all components for activity monitoring can beintegrated with eyewear (e.g., eyeglasses), such as a frame (e.g., atemple of the frame) of the eyewear. As an example, the eyewear normallyincludes a pair of temples, and the components for activity monitoringcan be embedded within one or both of the temples. In oneimplementation, all components for activity monitoring are integratedinto a single temple of the frame of the eyewear. As an example, thesecomponents can be formed together on a substrate. The substrate with thecomponents mounted and interconnected can be referred to as a module.Embedding such a module into the eyewear can thus provide the eyewearwith activity monitoring capability with minimal disturbance to designfeatures of the eyewear.

A first aspect of the invention pertains to eyewear having a pedometer(or pedometer system). The pedometer provides the eyewear with anactivity monitoring capability.

FIG. 68 illustrates a pair of glasses 5100 according to one embodimentof the invention. The pair of glasses 5100 include a first lens holder5102 and a second lens holder 5104. The lens holders 5102 and 5104 arecapable of receiving lens. The lens can be prescription lens ornon-prescription lens. The first lens holder 5102 has a first side and asecond side. The second lens holder 5104 has a first side and a secondside. The pair of glasses 5100 also has a bridge 5106. The bridge 5106is coupled to the second side of the first lens holder 5102 and thefirst side of the second lens holder 5104. The lens holders 5102 and5104 and the bridge 5106 can be separate pieces or a single integralpiece. The glasses 5100 can also be referred to as eyeglasses.

In addition, the pair of glasses 5100 includes a pair of temples,namely, a first temple 5108 and a second temple 5110. The first temple5108 is pivotally secured to the first side of the first lens holder5102 by way of a joint (or hinge) 5112. The second temple 5110 ispivotally secured to the second side of the second lens holder 5104 byway of another joint 5114.

Moreover, the pair of glasses 5100 further includes a pedometer 5116. Inthis embodiment, the pedometer 5116 is embedded in the temple 5110. Asillustrated in FIG. 68 , the pedometer 5116 includes a display 5118 anda switch 5120 that are exposed at the inside surface of the temple 5110.The display 5118 displays a visual indication of an output produced bythe pedometer 5116. In one implementation, the display 5118 is aliquid-crystal display. The switch 5120 can serve different functionsdepending on the embodiment. In general, various different types ofswitches can be used as the switch 5120. In one implementation, theswitch 5120 is a push-button switch that serves as an on/off button. Inanother implementation, the switch 5120 can be a slider switch.Different types of switches have previously been described in therelated patent applications mentioned above and incorporated byreference.

In general, the pedometer 5116 is at least partially embedded in thetemple 5110. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 68 , the pedometer 5116 isembedded in the temple 5110 with the display 5118 and the switch 5120being exposed. Other components of the pedometer 5116, including variouselectrical components, are embedded in the temple 5110 and not exposed.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 68 , the pedometer 5116 is in the temple5110 of the pair of glasses 5100 at a region close to its correspondingjoint 5114. The pedometer 5116 faces the user when the user is wearingthe pair of glasses 5100. With the pedometer 5116 in that position, insome cases, the wearer (user) may be able to see the pedometerinformation being output by the display 5118 without the need to takethe pair of glasses 5100 off.

Although this embodiment provides the pedometer 5116 in the temple 5110,the pedometer 5116 could alternatively be embedded in other parts of theeyeglass frame. With proper design, the overall appearance of the pairof glasses 5100 can remain aesthetically pleasing, particularly when thepedometer 5116 is substantially embedded in the eyeglass frame (e.g.,the temple 5110).

FIG. 69 illustrates a temple 5200 according to one embodiment of theinvention. The temple 5200 can, for example, represent anotherembodiment for the temple 5110 of FIG. 68 . In any case, the temple 5200includes an inside surface 5202. The inside surface 5202 has a removablecover 5204. The removable cover 5204 serves to cover a cavity within thetemple 5200 that includes electrical components associated with apedometer. The removable cover 5204 has a display opening 5206 thataligns with a display of the pedometer, and a switch opening 5208 thataligns with a switch. When the removable cover 5204 is removed, thepedometer can be inserted into the cavity within the temple 5200.However, with the removable cover attached, the pedometer is held withinthe cavity, yet the display of the pedometer can remain exposed becauseof its alignment with the display opening 5206 and the switch can remainaccessible because of its alignment with the switch opening 5208.

FIG. 68 shows an embodiment with a pedometer facing inward towards thewearer when the glasses are being worn. Alternatively, the pedometercould be facing out and the user can temporarily remove the glasses toread pedometer output.

There are a number of benefits of having a pedometer with a pair ofglasses. For one, if the pedometer is in the glasses, one does not needto separately carry a pedometer. Also, with the pedometer in theglasses, a user may be able to see his progress just by moving his eyes.For example, the pedometer can have a display and the display can belocated close to a hinge of a temple, facing the user when the glassesare worn. In such case, the user does not have to move his hands orother parts of his body to monitor his progress; he only has to move hiseyes to see the display and to track his progress while exercising.Similarly, in an embodiment with the pedometer and a speaker in theglasses, a user can hear his progress without the need for the volume ofthe audio signals to be high because the speaker can be relatively closeto the user's ear.

FIG. 70 is a block diagram of a pedometer system 5300 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The pedometer system 5300 can also bereferred to as a pedometer. The pedometer system 5300 is suitable foruse as one implementation of the pedometer 5116 illustrated in FIG. 70 .The pedometer system 5300 includes a controller 5302 that controlsoverall operation of the pedometer system 5300. An accelerometer 5304provides an input data signal to the controller 5302. The controller5302 receives the input data signal from the accelerometer 5304 anddetermines whether the output information produced on a display 5306should be altered or whether there should be an output on the display5306. The pedometer system 5300 also includes a switch 5308 and a powersource 5310. The switch 5308 provides an input control signal to thecontroller 5302. In one embodiment, the switch 5308 can serve as anon/off switch. In another embodiment, the switch 5308 can provide areset operation for the output of the pedometer system 5300. In stillanother embodiment, the switch 5308 can be a light switch to providelight (e.g., back light) when activated so as to better illuminate thedisplay 5306. The display 5306 can, for example, be a Liquid CrystalDisplay (LCD) type display. The power source 5310 provides power to anyor all of the controller 5302, the accelerometer 5304 and the display5306. The power source 5310 can be implemented by a battery, kineticenergy device or solar cell, or some combination thereof. Although theswitch 5308 is not shown as being coupled to the power source 5300, inanother embodiment, the switch 5308 could be interposed between thepower source 5310 and the other electrical components of the pedometersystem 5300 so as to provide a power-off mechanism.

More generally, the display 5306 can be an output mechanism for thepedometer system 5300. An alternative output mechanism is a speaker. Inone embodiment, the glasses (e.g., glasses 5100) can include a speakerto provide an output of the pedometer system 5300. The speaker can beattached to or substantially internal to one of the glasses (e.g., atemple of the glasses). The glasses can also include more than onespeaker. The speaker(s) can provide an audio output for the benefit ofthe user of the glasses. The audio output can be a speech outputcorresponding to a pedometer output (e.g., distance, calories, etc.).The audio output could alternatively be a sound, such as a sound effect.For example, a first sound could be output to indicate a 10th of a mileincrement, and a second sound could be output to indicate a mileincrement.

In one embodiment, the pedometer is powered by a battery. The batterycan, for example, be rechargeable by way of coupling to a chargerthrough a connector at the glasses or by way of a solar cell. The solarcell can be coupled to or partially embedded in the pair of glasses. Inone embodiment, the pair of glasses includes a hatch (e.g., removablecover) that can be opened to replace the battery which is embedded inthe pair of glasses.

FIG. 71A illustrates an electrical system module 5400 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The electrical system module 5400 in thisembodiment operates as a pedometer system (pedometer). The electricalsystem module 5400 includes a substrate 5402. Mounted on a first side5404 of the electrical system module 5400 is a display 5406 and apush-button switch 5408. The electrical system module 5400 can, forexample, be designed to be placed internal to a cavity within the frameof a pair of glasses.

FIG. 71B illustrates a second side 5410 of the substrate 5402 of theelectrical system module 5400. The second side 5410 of the substrate5402 includes a controller chip 5412, an accelerometer 5414, and abattery 5416.

FIG. 71C illustrates a side view of the electrical system module 5400.The electrical system module 5300 is generally small so as to fit withinan eyeglass frame, as discussed above with reference to FIGS. 68 and 69. In this embodiment, the electrical system module 5300 has electroniccomponents on both sides of the substrate 5402; however, it should beunderstood that all the electrical components could be on a single side,which could provide a profile with reduced thickness. The substrate 5402is for example, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) or a tape for holdingintegrated circuits. In one example, the substrate 5402 can be made ofepoxy and glass, and in another example, the substrate 5402 can be madeof Kapton®, a brand of polyimide.

Further, in some embodiment, the substrate (e.g., PCB) can conform tothe size and shape of the temple. FIG. 71D illustrates a temple 5450according to one embodiment of the invention. The temple 5450 can, forexample, represents another embodiment for the temple 5110 of FIG. 68 orthe temple 5200 illustrated in FIG. 69 . In any case, the temple 5450includes an inside surface 5452. The inside surface 5452 has a displayopening 5454 that aligns with a display of the pedometer (e.g., display5406), and a switch opening 5456 that aligns with a switch. Both thedisplay and the switch are mounted on a substrate. In this embodiment, asubstrate 5458 for the pedometer is housed internal to the temple 5450.Moreover, in this embodiment, the substrate 5458 is not rectangular butinstead conforms to the configuration of the temple 5450. In particular,the substrate 5458 has a forward end 5460 and a back-end 5462. In thisembodiment, the back-end 5462 has a substantially reduced height ascompared to the forward end 5460. There is also a curved region 5464 ofthe substrate 5408 to transition between the forward end 5460 and theback-end 5462. A cavity is provided internal to the temple 5450. In oneembodiment, the cavity is designed to receive the substrate 5460. Hence,in one embodiment, the cavity also has a non-rectilinear configuration.Since temples are often small and have a low profile, the substrateneeds to likewise be small and have a low profile. However, a substratewith a rectangular configuration may not have enough surface area forall the electrical components to be provided on the substrate. However,by using a non-rectangular configuration for the substrate, there can bemore surface area for the substrate. Additionally, in this way, anelectrical system module (e.g., pedometer system) can be provided withinthe glasses with reduced impact on aesthetic design.

FIG. 72A illustrates representative output data for a pedometer system(pedometer) according to one embodiment of the invention. The outputdata can, for example, pertain to one or more of: steps taken, distancetraveled, calories consumed, duration of activity, and speed of travel.The output data can be presented in a visual manner on a display of apedometer system, such as the display 5118, 5206, 5306 or 5406 notedabove. Alternatively, the output data can be presented in an audiomanner via a speaker. The display and/or the speaker can be attached toor at least partially embedded within the pair of glasses having thepedometer system.

FIG. 72B illustrates representative input data for a pedometer systemaccording to one embodiment of the invention. The input data can, forexample, pertain to data that is input to the pedometer system tofacilitate its operation. For example, the input data can include one ormore of: stride information, time (i.e., current time), and/or weight ofuser. Although providing input data to the pedometer system is notnecessary, for some embodiments, it is helpful to producing output datathat is more accurate.

As noted above, the pedometer system can provide different types ofoutputs. For example, the display can show step count, i.e., a count forthe number of steps taken by the user. The glasses can have an on/offswitch to activate/deactivate the pedometer system. When the pedometersystem is turned on, it can keep track of the number of steps taken bythe user.

Another type of output can be distance traveled. The pedometer systemcan include a switch for stride-length adjustment. The switch can havethree (3) positions—a long, a medium and a short stride, each with itscorresponding distance. The user can set the switch at one of thepositions. The pedometer system (e.g., controller 5302) can thenmultiplied that distance by the step count to generate the distancetraveled. In another embodiment, the user can enter his average stridedistance into the glasses to provide a more accurate distancecalculation. This can be done directly (e.g., inches, feet orcentimeters) or indirectly (e.g., steps per 10^(th) of a mile or stepsper kilometer).

Another type of output is time elapsed (i.e., duration). The pedometersystem can include a timer to show time elapsed. With the timer, thecontroller can also divide distance traveled by time elapsed to providea speed output or an average speed output.

The distance traveled could represent the horizontal distance traveledor the vertical distance (i.e. elevation) traveled. As one example, apedometer can provide an estimate of distance traveled The speed can beacquired or determined, such as the rate of movement along thehorizontal distance and/or the vertical distance traveled. In oneembodiment, the pedometer system can further include an altimeter tomeasure vertical distance traveled. As another example, caloriesconsumed can be determined (e.g., estimated) based on various physicaland/or environmental conditions that can be measured or determined.

In one embodiment, the person can enter his weight into the pedometer.Based on the weight and the distance traveled, the pedometer can measurethe number of calories burned, which are proportional to the weight andthe distance traveled.

FIG. 73 is a flow diagram of a distance output process 5600 according toone embodiment of the invention. The distance output process 5600 is,for example, performed by a pedometer system, such as the pedometer 5116or the pedometer system 5300. The distance output process 5600 operatesto determine and then output a distance amount associated with a user ofthe pedometer (pedometer system). As noted above, a pedometer can outputa distance traveled by the user of the pedometer.

The distance output process 5600 initially reads 5602 activity sensor(e.g., accelerometer) data. A distance traveled is then computed 5604based on the activity sensor data. Next, the distance traveled is added5606 to the total distance traveled. As a result, the total distance isupdated to include the incremental distance that the user has traveledsince the last instance of the distance output process 5600. The updatedtotal distance traveled is then displayed 5608.

Next, a decision 5610 determines whether to update the distance beingmonitored by the distance output process 5600. When the decision 5610determines that an update is needed, the distance output process 5600returns to repeat the operation 5602 and subsequent operations so that anext distance travel can be computed and processed in a similar manner.It should be noted that the distance traveled being displayed 5608 canbe rendered in any sort of units, including steps, miles, feet, meters,etc.

On the other hand, when the decision 5610 determines that an update isnot yet needed, a decision 5612 determines whether a reset has beenrequested. When the decision 5612 determines that a reset has not beenrequested, then the distance output process returns to repeat thedecision 5610 to again evaluate whether an update is needed. Here, theactivity monitoring hardware can be inactive for a period of time (e.g.,a delay time). This inactive period can provide low power operation ofthe activity monitoring hardware. In general, the less often updatesoccur, the less power consumed. Alternatively, when the decision 5612determines that a reset has been requested, the total distance traveledis reset 5614 (i.e., cleared or set to zero). Following the operation5614, the distance output process 5600 again returns to repeat theoperation 5602 and subsequent operations.

Pedometer designs can have various different structures. In oneembodiment, an advantage to have a pedometer in the glasses can be dueto the structure of one type of pedometer. In one approach, a pedometerincludes a weight and a spring. In one embodiment, the pedometer canalso include an LED, a photodetector and a controller. The weight is atthe end of the spring, which can be a leaf spring. The weight with thespring have a resonant frequency that can be in the range of normalwalking pace, such as 60-120 steps/minute. At that frequency, the weightwith the spring will resonate. The resonance can be critically damped,such as by allowing the weight to go up and down beyond a threshold, butonly once per step of the user. Normally, the photodiode receives lightfrom the LED. When the weight goes beyond the threshold, it can blockthe light from the LED from reaching the photodiode. By measuring (e.g.,counting) the number of times light is blocked and unblocked, acontroller would be able identify the number of steps the user haswalked. Based on such a structure, in one embodiment, for optimalperformance, the orientation of the up-down motion of the weight shouldbe substantially vertical. If a pedometer is a device you can clip ontoa piece of clothing, a user can clip it on such that the orientation ofthe up-down motion of the weight is horizontal, which causes theperformance of the pedometer to be substantially degraded. Glasses areusually worn in a standard position. The position, including theorientation, of the pedometer can thus be fixed relative to the glasses.Then, the orientation of the up-down motion of the weight can be fixedto be substantially vertical when the glasses are worn, or besubstantially perpendicular to the orientation of the bridge of theglasses. This is another advantage of having a pedometer in the glassesin a number of embodiments.

In another embodiment, the pedometer can be automatically adjusted basedon the types of exercise the user is engaging in, such as whether she iswalking or jogging. For example, the resonance frequency, stride, orother parameter can be changed to provide a more accurate correspondenceto whether the person is walking or jogging. There could alternativelybe a switch that allows the person to change the pedometer from thewalking mode to the jogging mode.

The activity monitoring can but need not be performed by a pedometer(pedometer system). That is, other activity monitoring systems besidespedometer systems can be used. In other words, a pedometer system can bereplaced by an activity monitor. An activity monitor is a monitor ofgeneral activity. For example, the activity being monitored cancorrelate to movement of its user. Such movement may or may notcorrespond to distance traveled. For example, a pedometer systemmeasuring steps taken by a user while working out at the gym wouldtypically imply that the user is nevertheless active, albeit in arelatively confined area. In contrast, an activity monitor could betterunderstand that the user is getting up and down many times and otherwiseinvolved in a substantial amount of movement while at the gym.Similarly, homeowners cleaning the house engages in a lot of activity,but perhaps not requiring a comparable number of steps, as a jogger.

In one embodiment, the activity monitor can be partially or completelyembedded in a pair of eyeglasses. Typically, the activity monitorincludes an activity sensor and electronic circuitry in the pair ofeyeglasses that monitors the activity, manipulates the monitored signalsand provides an output of an activity indication to the user orinterested party.

The activity sensor can sense user activity level. As an example, theuser activity level can be used to provide a lifestyle indication. Forexample, a lifestyle indication can indicate to the user whether theuser was active today or, alternatively, lazy today. The lifestyleindication can be displayed as a text or graphic symbol to inform theuser or others of the activity level. For example, the lifestyleindication can be displayed by an output device (e.g., a LCD or LEDdisplay). The output device can be integrated with an eyeglass frame(e.g., at a temple portion of the eyeglass frame).

The activity level can pertain to a period of time, such as last 5minutes, last hour, last 8 hours or last 24 hours. In one embodiment,within the time period, electronic circuitry can measure (e.g., count)motion (e.g. vibrations), such as via an accelerometer or other motionindicators. When motion exceeds a threshold, a count can be increased.The count total for the period of time can then be compared to an index.The index can then provide an activity level, which can be numeric(e.g., 1-10 rating), textual (e.g., lazy, slow, moderate, active) orgraphical. For example, in a given day, a count can be accumulated, andthen the activity level can be re-determined based on the accumulatedcount at the end of each day. The following table is representative ofthe correspondence between count value, thresholds (TH), and activitylevel.

Count Activity Level <or = TH1 Lazy >TH1 but < or = TH2 Slow >TH2 but <or = TH3 Moderate >TH3 Active

These activity levels can also be linked to numerical or graphicalindicators which can be displayed on an output device. The output viathe output device can provide a current activity and/or a cumulativeactivity level, which can be a cumulative daily activity level. Theoutput can also be displayed relative to one or more benchmarks.

When there is no motion or essentially no motion, the monitoring systemcan power-off or enter a low-power mode, and thus stop performingactivity processing or providing any activity indication at an outputdevice.

In one embodiment, the activity sensor can be implemented using anaccelerometer or a vibration sensor. In another embodiment, the activitysensor can be implemented using a pedometer, which can be either amechanical or electrical pedometer. In yet another embodiment, theactivity can be implemented using a GPS receiver. In still otherembodiment, the activity sensor can be implemented using a combinationof any of the foregoing. In yet another embodiment, a plurality ofactivity sensors can be utilized. Such multiple activity sensors can beprocessed separately or in combination.

In one embodiment, the activity sensor can be used to measure distancetraveled. In another embodiment, the activity sensor can acquire aposition. The relative change in position over time can be used todetermine a distance traveled. Then, the distance traveled over time canbe used to correlate to an activity level. The activity level can thenbe displayed in any of the various ways noted above. In otherembodiment, the activity sensor can be used to measure minimum activity(e.g., sleeping). In still another embodiment, the activity sensor canbe used to measure velocity or acceleration.

In one embodiment, an activity monitoring system which providesmonitoring and display of activity information can be at least partiallyembedded in a pair of eyeglasses. In another embodiment, the activitymonitoring system can be at least partially embedded in at least onetemple of a pair of eyeglasses. Optionally, the pair of glasses canfurther include one or other sensors discussed herein or in relatedapplications. At least one of the sensors can be remote from the pair ofeyeglasses (and utilizes wireless or wired communication to interact).

In yet still another embodiment, the activity monitor can operate as acalorie counter. In such case, data from an activity sensor can beconverted into estimated calories consumed by, for example, the wearerof the glasses. The glasses may permit a user to enter his weight, orthere can be a series of glasses each being utilized for differentweight ranges. An output device provided with a pair of such glasses caninform the user of the calories consumed, such as throughout the day.The glasses can also include a reset button or on/off switch so thatcalorie count can be cleared. The glasses might also store calorieinformation for a plurality of days and permit uploading such data to acomputer (wirelessly or via a connector provided with the glasses).

There can also be a memory device to keep track of the activityinformation for a number of days. The activity monitoring system caninclude or couple to a controller that controls storage and retrieval ofthe information to and from the memory device.

In one embodiment, the activity monitoring system (e.g., pedometer) hasan automatic off feature that allows a controller to automatically turnoff or deactivate the activity monitoring system if the activitymonitoring system does not sense any steps taken by the user for apredetermined period of time, such as two (2) minutes.

In different embodiments, the glasses can be more geared towards sports.The glasses can be a pair of sports glasses, swimming goggles, orprotective goggles for playing different types of sports, such asracquetball.

In still another embodiment, a pair of eyeglasses can include or utilizea sensor to serve as a stress monitor. For example, stress can beestimated in view of blood pressure which can be evaluated with a bloodpressure sensor and/or in view of pulse rate which can be evaluated witha pulse rate sensor. As another example, blood pressure or pulse ratesensors together with activity can be used to estimate stress.

The activity monitoring system can also include one or more switcheswith the eyewear. The switches can, for example, facilitate user inputor control with respect to the activity monitoring system. For example,the switches can provide one or more of on/off, reset, on, on (andreset), and calibration. The activity monitoring system can also providea user with an indication of whether the system is currently on or off,such as by a graphical image on a display device or by a LED. The one ormore switches can also be used to change operational settings, such asthreshold levels, output type, user preferences, user physicalcharacteristics (e.g., stride, weight), operational mode, oractivation/deactivation of auxiliary sensors, if any.

The activity monitoring system can have a “being-worn” switch. In oneembodiment, the “being-worn” switch enables the activity monitoringsystem to automatically determine when to monitor activity and when notto monitor activity. In particular, the activity can be monitored whenan eyeglass frame having the activity monitoring system is “being-worn”and not when the eyeglass frame is not “being-worn.” The “being-worn”switch can be positioned in the temple portion with the other componentsof the activity monitoring system. In one embodiment, the activitymonitoring system is provided, as a module as noted above, and whichfurther includes a switch. The switch can, for example, be a “beingworn” switch. By having the switch integral with the module, themanufacture and assembly of the end-product having the activitymonitoring system can be simplified. As examples, the “being-worn”switch can be an optical, magnetic or mechanical switching device.

The “being-worn” switch can make use of the situation that the templesare in an open position when the eyeglass frame is being worn, and in aclosed position when not being worn. In one embodiment, the “being-worn”switch can be positioned at a temple proximate to a region that couplesthe temple to its corresponding lens holder. For example, the activitymonitoring system (e.g., module) can be provided within the templeregion near the end of the temple so that the “being worn” switch isadjacent the lens portion of the eyeglass frame.

The “being worn” switch can also be used by a user to signal theactivity monitoring system to provide its output at an output device,such as a display device. For example, when the “being worn” switch isinitially closed (i.e., being worn), the activity monitoring system canoutput its text or graphical output to the display device. Typically,the displayed output would be displayed only for a limited period oftime (e.g., 10 seconds). Such an approach is typically more powerefficient, yet permits the user to obtain the output information whendesired. Alternatively, another switch (e.g., dedicated output switch)could be used to cause the output to be displayed for a limited periodof time or while the switch is depressed.

In one embodiment, the eyewear including the activity monitoring systemcan further include one or more auxiliary sensors. FIG. 74 is a chart5700 that depicts examples of auxiliary sensors that can be utilizedwith the eyewear.

The chart 5700 indicates that one type of auxiliary sensor is a “beingworn” sensor. The “being worn” sensor would indicate whether the glassesare being worn by its user. The “being worn” sensing mechanism can beperformed using, for example, a thermal sensor, a motion detector, astress sensor or a switch.

In one embodiment, a motion detector is used as a “being worn” sensor. Athreshold can be set, such that if the amount of motion detected exceedsthe threshold, the eyewear is assumed to be worn. The motion detectorcan, for example, be achieved by a mechanical means or an accelerometer.

In another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor includes one or morethermal sensors. In the case where two sensors are used, one sensor canbe at approximately the middle of a temple, such as in a region thatwould receive heat from the head of the user wearing the glasses, andthe other sensor can be positioned at the end of the same temple closeto the hinge. If the temperature differential between the two sensors isbeyond a certain preset value, the eyewear would be assumed to be worn.

In yet another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor includes a stresssensor at the hinge of the temple. The assumption is that when theeyewear is worn, the hinge is typically slightly stretched becausetypically the width of the head of the user can be slightly wider thanthe width between the temples when the two temples are in the extendedpositions. If the value of the stress sensor is beyond a certain presetvalue, the glasses would be assumed to be worn.

In still yet another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor can beimplemented as a switch. For example, the switch can utilize optical,magnetic or mechanical means. In one embodiment, the switch can bepositioned at the temple of the eyewear, such as a forward end of thetemple proximate to a corresponding lens holder. Different embodimentsof such sensors is also described in U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/583,169, filed Jun. 26, 2004, entitled “ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FORUSE WITH EYEWEAR, AND METHODS THEREFOR,” which has been incorporatedherein by reference, see, e.g., section entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH USERINPUT CAPABILITY.”

Another type of auxiliary sensor is an environmental sensor. Theenvironmental sensor can sense environmental conditions, such as one ormore of temperature (e.g., ambient temperature), pressure, humidity andtoxins (e.g., chemicals, radiation, etc.).

Still another type of auxiliary sensor is a physical sensor. Thephysical sensor can sense physical conditions of the user of theglasses. Examples of physical sensors include sensing one or more oflocation, temperature, alertness, and vital signs (e.g., heart rate,blood pressure, etc.) associated with the user of the glasses. Stillother physical sensors can sense emotions of the user. For example, thephysical sensor could sense whether the user is calm, excited, happy,sad, angry, etc. In one embodiment, the physical sensor can also moregenerally sense user activity level. As an example, the user activitylevel can be used to provide a lifestyle indication. For example, alifestyle indication might show that the user was active today or,alternatively, lazy today. Such a lifestyle indication can be displayedas a text or graphic symbol to let the user or others aware of theactivity level.

In one embodiment, one particular type of physical sensor is aheart-beat sensor. The heart-beat sensor measures the heart beat of thewearer of the eyewear. One implementation for the heart-beat sensorutilizes an infrared emitter and an infrared detector as components. Theinfrared emitter can be an infrared LED and the infrared detector can bean infrared photodiode (or a non-infrared photodiode with a separateinfrared filter). The components can be located at a temple of theeyewear, with both the emitter and the detector facing the user when theeyewear is worn. In operation, the infrared emitter shines infraredradiation towards the user, and the detector captures the infraredsignals reflected back by the skin of the user. The magnitude of thereflected signals depends on the amount of blood flowing below the skin,which, in turn, depends on (i.e., fluctuates with) the heart beat. Therate of emission by the emitter and reception by the detector can bemodulated (e.g., amplitude modulate) in a frequency range much higherthan the heart beat, such as three Kilohertz. And the signals from thedetector can be low-pass filtered before they are measured to identifythe heart beat of the user. For example, the low-pass filter can have acutoff frequency at about 1 Hertz (Hz).

It should be understood that the sensors might rely on more than onemeasured criteria. The one or more measured criteria might be used todetermine the sensor output. The determination of the sensor output caninvolve estimation or prediction.

The auxiliary sensors can be provided in a redundant or fault-tolerantmanner. For example, sensors can be provided in pairs. When one sensorof a pair malfunctions, the other one can replace it. In anotherembodiment, any of the auxiliary sensor information can be processed ina differential manner to examine changes to the auxiliary sensorinformation. The auxiliary sensors can by powered by a battery, solarenergy, or kinetic energy. For reduced power consumption, the auxiliarysensors can remain in a low-power state unless data is being acquired bythe auxiliary sensors. In yet another embodiment, two or more of theauxiliary sensors can communicate with one another (wired or wirelessly)to exchange data or control information.

In general, the auxiliary sensors can be fully or partially embedded inthe eyewear or a base tethered to the eyewear. Alternatively, one ormore of the auxiliary sensors can be separate from the eyewear, or anybase tethered thereto, and wirelessly communicate with the eyewear orbase.

An output (e.g., notification to the user) can vary in content and type.The type can be visual and/or audio. The content can be numerical,graphical, musical, textual, synthesized text, etc. The output can alsobe predetermined, dynamically determined or configurable. Still further,the output can be dependent on user preferences, user physicalcharacteristics, auxiliary sensor information (e.g., location), ordegree of health risk.

An activity monitoring system can also include one or more connectorswith the eyewear. The connectors can, for example, facilitate electricalor mechanical interconnection with an external electrical device (e.g.,computing device, media player, headset, power source). Although theformat and size of the connectors can vary, in one embodiment, theconnector is a standard audio connector or a peripheral bus connector(e.g., USB connector).

An activity monitoring system can also include one or more switches withthe eyewear. The switches can, for example, facilitate user input orcontrol with respect to the activity monitoring system. For example, theswitches can provide one or more of on/off, reset, on, on (and reset),and calibration. The activity monitoring system can also provide a userwith an indication of whether the system is currently on or off, such asby a graphical image on a display device or by a LED.

An activity monitoring system can also include a memory. The memory canbe volatile or non-volatile. The memory can also be removable ornon-removable with respect to the eyewear. If the memory is volatile,the activity monitoring system, if solar powered, could also include abattery to provide power to the memory so that stored data (e.g., userpreferences, etc.) can be retained even when adequate solar energy isnot available. As an example, the presence of a memory can allow storageof activity information for an extended period of time to acquire ahistorical understanding of activity information.

In one embodiment, an eyeglass frame can include memory that can storeacquired activity information. Such stored activity information can besubsequently uploaded to a computer, in a wired or wireless manner. Theactivity information can then be analyzed by the computer.

An activity monitoring system can also include a communication module.The communication module would allow data transmission to and from theactivity monitoring system (namely, the eyewear) and an external device.The data being transmitted can, for example, be activity information,configuration data, user preferences, or auxiliary sensor data. The datatransmission can be wireless or wireline based. The eyewear can furtherinclude a connector operatively connected to the activity monitoringsystem. Such a connector can facilitate data transmission with respectto the activity monitoring system or the eyewear.

A temple of a pair of glasses can be removable from the remainder of theframe. Such facilitates replacement of temples. For example, aconvention temple could be removed from a frame and replaced with atemple having at least one electrical component at least partiallyembedded therein.

An activity monitoring system can be partially or fully contained in atemple arrangement associated with a temple of a pair of glasses. In oneembodiment, the temple arrangement can be removable from the temple. Atemple arrangement can be a temple tip, a temple cover or a templefit-over.

In one implementation, an activity monitoring system (e.g., pedometer)can alternatively be provided in a temple arrangement. Referring back toFIG. 68 , each temple 5108, 5110 has two ends, the first end and thesecond end. The first end is the end that is pivotally secured to itscorresponding hinge 5112, 5114. In one arrangement, the second end ofone or both of the temples 5108, 5110 has a temple arrangement. In oneembodiment, at least a portion of the electrical components of anactivity monitoring system (e.g., pedometer) is in a temple arrangement,and another portion of the electrical components of the activitymonitoring system is in a temple arrangement.

For some glasses, particularly when a pair of glasses has not beenextensively worn, a temple arrangement, such as a temple tip, can berelatively easily removed and re-inserted into the glasses. As a result,temple arrangements of different color and/or shape and/or havingdifferent electrical components can be applied to the same frame of apair of glasses. Retailers or distributors can then provide after-marketmodification or enhancement to a pair of glasses, at the preference oftheir consumers. This, for example, can be done by replacing existingtemple tips with replacement temple tips. Alternatively, a consumer canidentify the preferred temple arrangements to be sold with the glasses.Different embodiments on after-market enhancement and/or modification ofglasses have previously been described in the related patentapplications mentioned above.

An activity monitoring system can be partially or fully tethered to apair of glasses. For example, some of the components for monitoringactivity or one or more auxiliary sensors can be tethered to theeyewear. In one embodiment, the tethered components can be tethered atthe neck or upper back region of the user. Tethering components canallow for increased design freedom with the eyewear as well asadditional area with which to house the components. For example, anactivity monitoring system could be partially or completely within adevice or a base that can be tethered to eyewear.

Still further, an activity monitoring system could be partially orcompletely within a device or a base that can be tethered to eyewear.

In another embodiment, an eyeglass frame can have openings (e.g., holes)at the ends of the temple tips so as to facilitate attachments ofstraps, holders, etc.

Although much of the above discussion pertains to providing activitymonitoring capabilities in eyewear, it should be understood that any ofthe various embodiment, implementations, features or aspects noted abovecan also be utilized in other or on end products besides eyewear.Examples of other such end-products can include: hats (e.g., soft hats,hard-hats, helmets), watches or watch bands, bracelets, braceletaccessories, necklaces, necklace accessories, rings, shoes (e.g.,sandals, athletic shoes, beach shoes), shoe accessories, clothing (e.g.,tee-shirt, swimming-suit, ties, pants, jackets, etc.), belts, beltaccessories, zippers, key rings, purses, beach-tags, containers (e.g.,cups, bottle, tube—such as a sun tan lotion bottle or tube); containerholders (e.g., can holders, coasters, coolers, etc.), and other consumerproducts.

A number of embodiments have been described above for an eyeglass frame,i.e., primary frame. Such embodiments are also applicable to anauxiliary frame. An auxiliary frame can attach to a primary framethrough different techniques, such as using clips or magnets.

In the event that electrical components, such as an activity monitoringsystem, are at least partially embedded in one of the temples of aneyeglass frame, the other of the temples can include other electricalcomponents or even a counter weight. It is desirable for the eyeglassframe to be substantially balanced. Hence, the implementation of theeyeglass frame should offset any weight imposed by activity or othermonitoring. For example, if five (5) grams of electrical components areadded to one temple, the other temple should also have approximatelyfive (5) grams added thereto.

Certain aspects of the invention can be implemented in software,hardware or a combination of hardware and software. Certain aspects ofthe invention can also be embodied as computer readable code on acomputer readable medium. The computer readable medium is any datastorage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by acomputer system. Examples of the computer readable medium includeread-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, magnetic tape, opticaldata storage devices, and carrier waves. The computer readable mediumcan also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so thatthe computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributedfashion.

The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different embodiments orimplementations may yield one or more of the following advantages. Oneadvantage of the invention is that a pedometer or other activity monitorcan be added to or coupled to eyewear. Another advantage of theinvention is that pedometer or other activity monitoring capabilitiescan be provided for eyeglasses without substantial interference to styleor design choices, and thus without being apparent that the eyeglassessupport such capabilities.

FIG. 75 shows one embodiment of the present invention. The embodimentincludes a pair of glasses 6010 with a first lens holder 6012 and asecond lens holder 6014. Both lens holders are for receiving lenses. Thefirst lens holder 6012 has a first side and a second side. The secondlens holder 6014 also has a first side and a second side. The pair ofglasses has a bridge element 6015. The bridge element is coupled to thefirst side of the first lens holder 6012 and the second side of thesecond lens holder 6014. In one embodiment, the lens holders and thebridge element are not separate pieces, but are an integral piece.

The pair of glasses 6010 also includes a first temple 6016 and a secondtemple 6018. The first temple 6016 is pivotally secured to the secondside of the first lens holder 6012 through a joint 6020. And, the secondtemple 6018 is pivotally secured to the first side of the second lensholder 6014 through another joint 6022. The glasses 6010 further includea speaker 6024, a power source 6026 and a switch 6028. The speaker 6024is powered by the power source 6026, and the switch 6028 is used to turnthe speaker 6024 on and off. The pair of glasses 6010 can deliverinformation through the speaker 6024 to the wearer or user of theglasses 6010. In one embodiment, the information is available for aduration of time. With the speaker 6024 close to at least one of ears ofthe wearer of the glasses 10, the information provided to the user canbe provided in a relatively private manner.

In different embodiments, the glasses 6010 can be a pair of sunglasses,fit-over glasses, prescription glasses or other types of glasses. In anumber of embodiments, the frames of the glasses have more surface areathan frames with minimal structure, such as those frames with lensesconnected together by wires. For example, the temples of the glasses canhave a tapered profile. Each of the temples is wider or broader when itis close to its corresponding joint. In one embodiment, the temple iswider or broader by spanning across a wider or broader arealongitudinally downward, creating a bigger surface in an orientationgenerally parallel to the side of the user's head. FIG. 75 shows anexample of such an embodiment.

In another embodiment, there can be a shield at least at one edge ofeach of the lens holders of the glasses. These shields can wrap around,or better conform to the profile of, the face of the wearer. The shieldscan be opaque. There can be transparent or translucent windows on theseshields. To illustrate, in fit-over sunglasses, when worn over a pair ofprescription glasses, such shields can go over or cover at least aportion of the pair of prescription glasses. Note that in oneembodiment, a pair of glasses does not have to include lenses.

In one embodiment, a pair of glasses is for an event. An event can beviewed from the perspective of one or more organizations sponsoring ororganizing the event. These events can be, for example, a basketballgame, a concert, or a trade show. These events are provided or sponsoredby one or more organizations or companies. In a number of embodimentswhere information is available from a speaker at a pair of glasses andthe glasses are for an event, the information made available from thespeaker is related to the event. In such embodiments, the informationcan be available for only a limited duration of time and the duration isassociated with the event, which can include some time (such as buffertime) before the event and some time after the event. When the event isover, which can include any post-event buffer time, the information willgenerally not be available.

In another embodiment, an event can be viewed from the perspective ofthe person at the event. From the perspective of the person, an eventcan be buying a product from a store. This can be considered an eventfrom the point of view of the person at the event. Typically, it has abeginning, it has an end, and there is a purpose or a theme. Theinformation is available to the person when the person is at orproximate to a location associated with the event, such as a building.When the person is away from the location, the information will not beavailable.

In one embodiment, the duration of an event is not more than a week. Inanother embodiment, the duration is not more than a day. In yet anotherembodiment, the duration of an event is not more than a few hours, suchas nine hours.

In one embodiment, there is advertising or promotional material on apair of glasses, and the material is related to an event. The materialcan be on the surface area provided by temples, shields or other areason a pair of glasses. For example, if the event is about dinosaurs inthe Jurassic period provided by an organization, there can be aBrachiosaurus printed on the glasses. The organization can use thesurface area on the glasses as places for advertisement of not only theevent, but also the organization itself. The organization can also sellsuch surface area to other companies, which can provide additionalpromotional material on the glasses.

Referring back to FIG. 75 , it shows one embodiment of the inventionwhere there is a speaker 6024 in one of the temples 6018 of the glasses6010.

In one embodiment, the information is available for a duration of time,which can be short. For example, the power source 6026, which can be abattery, may not have enough power to run the speaker 6024 in its fullcapacity for a long duration. To illustrate, the battery 6026 only hasenough power to run the speaker continuously for a short duration oftime, which can be less than a few hours with the speaker 6024 at itshighest volume possible, when it is turned on by the switch 6028 in theglasses 6010. The battery 6026 can be encapsulated in the glasses 6010,such as in one of the temples 6018 of the glasses 6010. The battery 6026can be a coin battery or a AAA battery, or other types of batteries. Inone implementation, the glasses are designed such that the battery 6026is not easily replaceable by the user. The battery 6026 can be inside atemple and the temple can be sealed so that the battery 6026 istypically not replaceable without breaking the temple.

FIG. 76 shows a number of attributes regarding the applications of theglasses, such as the glasses shown in FIG. 75 , according to differentembodiments of the invention.

In one embodiment, the information provided by the glasses can be drivenby an event organized by an organization 6050. For example, the user isat a football game in a stadium. The information can be related to astar player, such as his statistics, or other interesting informationregarding the team. The information can be for an event related to theevent at the stadium. For example, the user is at the Stanford Stadiumwatching the game between the Stanford and the Berkeley football teams.However, periodic update information or other types of information, suchas play-by-play information, from a game at the UCLA Stadium betweenUCLA and USC can be provided to the user. All four teams are vying forthe PAC 10 title. The user at the Stanford Stadium, who might be an UCLAfan, can hear about how the UCLA team is performing, while watching theStanford/Berkeley game.

In the embodiments where information is available from the glasses, theinformation is available hands-free. This allows the user to use both ofhis hands totally freely, for whatever other purposes the user prefers,including providing different gestures.

In the embodiments where information is available, such as through aradio, the information can be available almost instantaneously when theelectrical components in the embodiments are activated or turned on.This can be important during high intensity games. If it takes 30seconds to start the system before information is available, such downtime may not be available or tolerable during the games.

The user in an event may not be the audience or the observer of theevent. In one embodiment, the user using a pair of glasses in thepresent invention not only attends the event, the person also helps toproduce the event. For example, the event is a game, and the person is acoach of one of the teams playing in the game. Additional embodimentswill be described where a pair of glasses is coupled to a handhelddevice. The glasses provide information to the coach, who can use thehandheld device for a number of purposes, such as to track plays orcalls.

In one embodiment, the information available at a pair of glasses can beadvertising materials available during the break time of a game. Theadvertising materials can, for example, be from a company organizing orsponsoring the event, or from one of the teams in the event.

As another example, the event is an indoor event, such as an indoorconcert.

The information can be location driven 6052, which in one embodiment canbe considered as an event attended by a user when the user is at thelocation. For example, the user is in a store, with many products. Theproducts can be services. As the user moves around the store, he looksat different products. In one approach, each product is designated by anumber. By entering the specific number into the glasses or into aportable device coupled to the glasses, such as through a switch,information pertinent to the corresponding product will be available tothe user. As another example, the user can be in an exhibit hall, atrade show or in a museum. As the user strolls in the hall, informationof different exhibits is available to him. Or, the user can be walkingaround a botanical garden, and is given a virtual, unguided tour by theglasses of the different type of plants in the garden. When the usermoves away from such locations, the information will not be available.

The user can be at places where he is alone, or he does not knowanybody. He might be bored. For example, he can be in a dental officehaving his teeth cleaned. Or, he can be in a bank waiting for his turn.Different types of information can be available to him. For example, ifthe bank has a new home loan program, such information is available tohim. Again, when the user moves away from such location, the informationwill not be available.

The information can be for entertaining 6054 the user. Or, theinformation is primarily promotional 6056 in nature. The promotion canbe related to the event the user is participating, or the promotion canbe related to the location, such as the company associated with theuser's location.

The information can be in different languages 6058. For example, glasseswith a red dot provide information in English, while glasses with awhite dot provide information in Spanish. Or, there can be a switch onthe glasses that allows setting the language to that preferred by theuser.

The glasses can be given away 6060. They can be sold at a relatively lowprice 6062. Or, the glasses can be for temporarily use, such as the usercan borrow, rent or lease 6064 the glasses for a short duration of time.To track such glasses after they have been rented, each pair of glassescan have an identifier, such as a bar code. The bar code can be locatedon the inside of the glasses, such as on the inside of a temple of theglasses. In another embodiment, each pair of glasses can also oralternatively have a RFID tag, which can be wirelessly tracked. The tagcan be in a temple, such as in the vicinity of the tip of the temple, orits temple tip. A temple tip is, in general, in a region of the templesubstantially furthest away from the hinge of that temple. Theorganization responsible for renting out the glasses can ask for theuser's identity card, which can be the user's driver's license. The cardis then linked to the bar code, the RFID tag or other identifier of theglasses. When the user returns the glasses, the user can reclaim thecorresponding identity card.

Referring back to FIG. 75 , the embodiment 6010 includes a speaker 6024that is at least partially embedded into the glasses. There aredifferent approaches to embed an electrical component, such as aspeaker, into different types of glasses. A number of approaches aredescribed, for example, in the various related patent application notedabove.

In one embodiment, the pair of glasses 6010 shown in FIG. 75 includes aradio, and the speaker is a part of the radio. All the electronics forthe radio are at least partially embedded in the glasses. For example,the electronics can be on a printed circuit board, and the board is inone of the temples of the glasses. Information is provided to the userthrough the radio. The radio can be an AM or a FM receiver. In oneembodiment, the receiver is pretuned to the frequencies of thetransmitter of the information. Or, before the glasses are distributed,the radio is set to receive signals from a specific frequency band. Alsothe radio may not include an external tuner or switch on the glasses forthe user to tune the radio to listen to another frequency band. Inanother embodiment, the receiver is tunable by a switch on the glassesto one or more frequencies.

The information can be information captured by a microphone or otherpickup device, and transmitted over radio frequency waves to the radio.

As to the transmitted frequencies, typically government agencies, suchas the FCC in the United States, regulate the availability of frequencyranges, particularly when the power of transmission is not low. In oneembodiment, the transmitted frequencies can be on either side of thestandard FM radio bands. They can be within the television VHF frequencyrange of 50 megahertz to 150 megahertz, or 49 to 88 MHz, or 108 to 220MHz. Selecting such frequencies can have the advantage of havingreceiver components more readily available and less expensive. But, thefrequencies selected may vary depending on costs, performance and/or FCCor other government agency requirements.

In another embodiment, the transmitted frequencies are in the CB(Citizen Band) radio band.

In yet another embodiment, the transmitted frequencies are FM-sidebands.This would allow the use of FM sideband receivers. Using such sidebandstypically would require a lease from radio stations.

In one embodiment, information is transmitted to the glasses through aWi-Fi network, or a WiMax network.

Also, the frequencies transmitted could be based on spread spectrumtechniques. In other words, though the frequencies would constantlychange, the transmitter and the receiver would be synchronized followingthe changing frequencies. In a number of countries, such embodiments donot require government license.

Information can typically reside within a few MHz. In one embodiment,the radio in the glasses is a narrow-band receiver, with a bandwidth of3-6 MHz.

In yet another embodiment, the radio can receive signals from one ofmultiple and proximate AM modulated frequencies. For example, in amuseum, information from adjacent artwork can be transmitted based onfrequencies centered at the different frequencies. The radio receiver isa broader band AM receiver, which can be a receiver non-tunable by theuser. Depending on proximity, the radio will adjust automatically tocapture the frequency of the carrier for information regarding theparticular artwork and excludes cross-talks from information regardingits immediate adjacent artworks.

Another embodiment considers the power level of the transmitted signals.If the power level of the transmitted signals is low, signals do nottravel an excessive distance beyond the transmitter of the signals. Forexample, the low power level can be between ¼ to ½ watts. Or, the lowpower level is not more than 50 milliwatts. If the transmitted powerlevel is low, it is relatively easier to meet government agencies, suchas the FCC's, guidelines. Cost and complexity of the circuitry areusually also reduced. High power transmission typically requires specialgovernment approval.

In one embodiment, the transmission path between the transmitter and thereceiver is primarily line of sight, and the information can betransmitted via, for example, infrared.

In yet another embodiment, there can be multiple transmitters. This canthen keep transmission power low even if a large or unusually shapedarea is to be covered. The corresponding radio will capture its signalsfrom the transmitters based on proximity.

In one embodiment, the frequency of the radio cannot be tuned at theglasses by the user. The frequencies are fixed upon distribution of theglasses. In another embodiment, the frequencies of interest can bechanged. For example, there can be an EPROM in the glasses that can beprogrammed. Or, one can replace a chip in the glasses to adjust thefrequencies. In yet another embodiment, there can be one or moreswitches at the glasses to change the frequencies.

A number of embodiments have been described where the glasses include aradio to receive broadcast information. In another embodiment, theinformation to be received is previously programmed or recorded within amemory device. The glasses include a player to play the informationstored in the memory device, and the player includes a speaker. Theplayer is at least partially embedded in the glasses. In one embodiment,the glasses can include the memory device with the recorded information.

The memory can be on a printed-circuit board and, for example, can storeup to 256 MB. The memory can be a built-in or removable flash memory. Inone embodiment, the glasses include one or more connectors. The memoryembedded in the glasses can be coupled to a device external to theglasses through the one or more connectors. As an example, a 256 MBflash memory is in one of the temples of a pair of glasses, and there isa USB connector at, for example, the end of that temple (close to theear) to couple to an external device or instrument.

With the storage medium embedded, the glasses can upload information inthe memory to or download information into the memory from an externaldevice, such as a computer. A user can couple the glasses into thecomputer through a connector, either directly or indirectly. Forexample, indirect coupling might use an intermediate wire between thecomputer and the glasses.

In yet another embodiment, the memory device is external to the glasses.The memory device is coupled to the glasses through a connector at theglasses. If such removable memories are deployed for an event, thememories can be rented out during the event. Again, such memories can betracked based on, for example, identifiers stored in the memories, orattached to the memories.

FIG. 77 shows some of the electrical components for a player 6100 in aglasses according to an embodiment of the invention. The player includesa speaker 6102, a data bus 6104 to facilitate data transfer among, forexample, a processor 6106, a storage device 6108, and a coder/decoder(CODEC) 6110. The processor 6106, which can be a microprocessor orcontroller, controls the operation of the player 6100. The storagedevice 6108 stores the information, which can be different types ofappropriately-formatted media data. In one example, the information isdigitally encoded audio signals. The storage device 6108 can include anumber of separate storage elements. For example, the device can be aflash memory device, or a minidisk device, and a cache, which canimprove the access time and reduce power consumption of the storagedevice 6108. The storage device 6108 typically also includes a Read-OnlyMemory (ROM), which stores programs, utilities or processes to beexecuted in a non-volatile manner. The player 6100 can also include aRAM, such as for the cache.

Once a piece of information is selected to be played, the processor 6106would supply the piece of information to the CODEC 6110, whichdecompresses the media data and produces analog output signals for thespeaker 6102. In one embodiment, the bus 6104 is also coupled to aninput/output device 6112, which would allow information to be downloadedfrom an instrument to the glasses.

There are different approaches to identify a piece of information to beplayed. In one embodiment, different pieces of information in thestorage device 6108 can be categorized, and the categorization can behierarchical, with multiple levels in the hierarchy. To illustrate,assume that there are three levels. The top level can be the name of thefootball team; the second level can be the names of the players on theteam, and the third level can be scoring statistics or other attributesof the players. The entries, such as the name of the players, can beabbreviated. There can be a control knob or switch to allow the user toscroll down entries in a level. By pushing the knob, the user selects anentry, which can lead the user to the next level. There can be an entryfor moving up a level also. In one embodiment, once an entry isselected, the identity of that entry will be announced. For example, aselected entry is about the statistics of Joe Smith. Once that entry isselected, the speaker will state, “Joe Smith statistics.” If that is theone the user wants, the user can signal his preference by, for example,pushing a switch.

In another embodiment, the information can be searched. The search canbe based on one or more key words. As an example, the information isrelated to songs. A user can search by the name of the song, the name ofthe artists or music genre. Entry for the search term can be throughvoice recognition applications in the glasses. Based on the termverbalized by the user, a song will be selected. The glasses can ask theuser if that is the song the user has selected. If the response ispositive, the song will be played. If not, the glasses will ask the userto verbalize the term again. In another embodiment, entering the searchterms is through the key pad of a portable device, wired or wirelessly,coupled to the glasses. Additional descriptions regarding having aportable device linked to a pair of glasses will be further discussedbelow.

With the speaker relatively close to at least one ear of the user, thevolume of the speaker does not have to be very high. In one embodiment,the volume of the speaker is limited, such as the maximum sound level isnot more than 60 dB. If the glasses are powered by a battery, limitingthe volume of the speaker would extend the lifetime of the battery. Sucha limit can also reduce the chance of the speaker generating audiosignals that might disturb people in the vicinity of the user. This, inturn, helps to provide information to the user in a relatively privatemanner.

In one embodiment, the glasses are powered by a battery. To extend itslifetime, the glasses include a timer. For example, if the glasses havea radio, after the radio is turned on for a preset amount of time, thetimer will turn the radio off automatically. In another embodiment, theglasses include a speaker and the timer would turn the speaker off afterthe speaker has been turned on for a preset amount of time. The presettime can be determined by the timer.

In another embodiment, the glasses are powered by other types ofsources, such as a solar cell or a fuel cell. Such other type of sourcescan be at one of temples of the glasses.

As explained, in a number of embodiments, the glasses include a switch,which typically is at least partially embedded in the glasses. Forexample, the switch can be used to turn the speaker on, or to tune thefrequency of a radio. If the glasses have two speakers, such as one oneach of the temples, there can be two switches, one on each temple tocontrol the corresponding speaker. The two speakers can be forgenerating stereo audio signals for the user. There can also be onecontrol switch for both speakers.

The switch in the glasses can have different attributes. It can beactivated by different type of forces, including mechanical, radiation,magnetic, electrical, and temperature. The switch can also be activatedremotely by a remote device. The switch can be based on one or moredetectors. The switch can have different degrees or ranges of control,such as binary, multiple discrete steps or incremental control. Theswitch can be placed at different position on the glasses, such as onthe side or top surface of a temple or at a joint. The control can takeperception into consideration, such as based on texture, height andlateral position of multiple switches.

FIG. 78 illustrates a number of forces 6150 activating the switchaccording to different embodiments of the invention. They can be basedon, for example, mechanical 6152, radiation 6154, magnetic 6156,electrical 6158, and temperature 6160.

FIG. 79 illustrates a number of mechanical forces 6152 activating theswitch according to different embodiments of the invention. Themechanical switch or sensor can be a conductive-elastomer switch 6202, amembrane switch 6204, a dome switch 6206, a relatively simple wireswitch 6208, and a roller switch 6210, such as a switch including awheel. Another type of mechanical force can be based on stress 6211,such as a switch based on piezoelectric force or a piezoelectric device.

In yet another embodiment, the mechanical switch is made so that theelectrical circuitry in the glasses can be activated but not deactivatedby the user. In other words, once activated, the switch is designed notto be deactivated by the user, and the circuit will remain on till thepower source inside the glasses is depleted. One approach to implementsuch a switch is based on a piece of insulating material 6216 between aterminal of, for example, a battery and its contact with the circuitembedded in the glasses. When the battery is installed, at least one ofits terminals is separated from its circuit contact. There can be athin, flexible, insulating material, 6216, such as a ribbon, positionedbetween the terminal and the contact. Though the circuit is embedded inthe glasses, the insulating material 6216 extends outwardly from insidethe glasses through a hole, such as a small hole, in the side wall of,for example, a temple of the glasses. In one embodiment, the hole orslot is located above or below the terminal and the contact, or the holeis not directly inline with the terminal and the contact. By pulling theinsulating material out from the glasses, the terminal will establishelectrical connection with the contact, activating the circuit andturning the speaker on.

In another embodiment of a switch based on mechanical force 6154, themechanical force is the force that is used to insert 6218 a battery intothe glasses. Once the battery is inserted, the speaker in the glasseswill be activated. The speaker will remain on until the battery isremoved, or until the power in the battery is drained.

The switch can also be activated by radiation 6154, or energies in atype of radiation, according to a number of embodiments of theinvention. The radiation 6154 can be in the optical, or infrared orultraviolet range. For example, the switch includes a photodiode orphoto sensor in the glasses, and there is an opening above thephotodiode. In one embodiment, the diode is activated by light gettingto the diode through the opening. In another embodiment, the circuit isactivated if the opening is covered to prevent light from getting to thediode.

The switch can be activated by magnetic forces 6156. For example, therecan be a magnetic sensor or a Hall effect detector inside a templeproximate to a joint of a pair of glasses. FIG. 80 shows a section of apair of glasses 6250 with such a detector 6254. The detector 6254 iselectrically connected to a printed circuit board 6255. When the temple6252 is in its extended position, as when the glasses 6250 are ready tobe worn, the detector 6254 will be directly adjacent to a magnet 6256inside a lens holder 6258 at the corresponding joint 6260. The magnet6256 would activate the Hall effect detector 6254. In anotherembodiment, a magnetic switch is activated based on changing theinductance of a coil. For example, the switch includes a steel rod thatcan be positioned in or out of a coil. The switch's range of control isbased on the position of the rod with respect to the coil.

The switch can be activated depending on electrical forces 6158. In oneembodiment, the electrical force depends on capacitive effect. Bychanging the capacitance, the switch is turned on and off. For example,the capacitance is changed by placing one's finger over a metallic pad.In another example, by changing the amount of overlap between twometallic sheets that are not in contact, the capacitance between the twometallic sheets will change. This then changes the range of control ofthe switch.

In another embodiment, the electrical force 6158 is based on resistiveeffect. For example, the switch is made up of a slide or a rotarypotentiometer. By changing the amount of coupling, the amount ofresistance is changed to reflect the range of control of the switch.

In one embodiment, the switch's activation can depend on temperature160. For example, the switch includes a temperature sensor. When thetemperature reaches a certain point, the switch is activated.

In yet another embodiment, the switch is controlled by a remotecontroller. For example, the glasses include an infrared detector. Theremote controller can generate infrared radiation. By aiming thecontroller at the detector, the infrared radiation can activate theinfrared detector and the switch is activated. Or, if the user movesinto the vicinity of a corresponding infrared transmitter, circuits inthe glasses would be activated.

The switch can include one or more previously-described sensor ordetector of different types of forces. For example, the switch can usetwo photo sensors. One sensor is exposed to light on the outside surfaceof the temple and the other is exposed to light on the inside surface ofthe temple, such as close to the ear. Based on their differentialoutput, the switch is activated. As another example, there are twotemperature sensors in the glasses. One is located close to a joint andthe other is at the temple close to the ear. Again, the switching actiondepends on their differential outputs. In yet another embodiment, theglasses include more than one type of switch. There can be one type ofswitch, such as a mechanical switch, acting as an on/off switch, andanother, such as a switch using electrical forces, as an incrementalswitch to change frequency.

As described, in a number of embodiments, the switch can providedifferent degrees or ranges of control. In one embodiment, there are twodegrees of control, such as in an on/off switch. In another embodiment,there can be multiple discrete degrees, steps or positions. For example,the switch is a roller with discrete notches to indicate differentdiscrete positions. Or, there can be two mechanical switches, placedside-by-side. Pushing one switch will increment one step, and pushingthe other will decrement one step.

In yet another embodiment, the change from one degree to the next isgradual and not noticeably discrete. This can be achieved with two (2)sensors arranged in quadrature. FIGS. 81A-81C show examples of differentembodiments of such a switch based on two photodiodes or photodetectors.

FIG. 81A shows an embodiment 6300 with a wheel 6302 (roller) havingclear strips, 6304, 6306 and 6308, alternating with black strips, 6310,6312 and 6314, and two photodiodes, 6316 and 6318. Most of the wheel6302 and the two diodes, after incorporated into the temple 6320, arecovered by a piece of material 6322. The two diodes, 6316 and 6318, areexposed to ambient light through a clear window 6324. A part of thewheel 6302 is extended out of the temple 6320, allowing the wheel 6302to be turned about its axis 6326. The wheel 6302 can have teeth forfriction turning. As the wheel 6302 rotates about the axis 6326, basedon the differential outputs from the diodes, the direction of movementof the wheel 6302—clockwise or counterclockwise—is determined. Forexample, if the wheel 6302 is rotated clockwise, the top diode 6316senses light before the bottom 6318 senses light. On the other hand, ifthe wheel 6302 is rotated counterclockwise, the bottom diode 6318 senseslight before the top 6316. Based on the signals from the two diodes, onewould be able to tell if the wheel is being turned clockwise orcounterclockwise. Clockwise can denote increase and counterclockwise candenote decrease. This embodiment can be used, for example, to changefrequency. By turning the wheel 6302 clockwise, the frequency of theradio goes up. And, by turning the wheel 6302 counter-clockwise, thefrequency goes down. Such a wheel 6302 is also applicable for otherpurposes, such as controlling the volume of a speaker.

FIG. 81B shows an embodiment 6350 with a wheel 6352 having black 6354and reflecting 6356 strips, two photodiodes, 6358 and 6360, and a LED6362. Again, most of the wheel, the two diodes and the LED are coveredby a sheet of material 6364. If a reflecting strip 6356, instead of ablack strip 6354, goes over a diode, more light from the LED will bereflected back and received by the diode. If a black strip 6354 goesover a diode, output from the diode will be significantly reduced. Againbased on the signals from the diodes, the direction of rotation can bedetermined, which, in turn, can be used to indicate incrementing ordecrementing outputs.

FIG. 81C shows an embodiment 6400 again using two photodiodes, 6402 and6404, but without a wheel. The two diodes, 6402 and 6404, are exposed toambient light unless they are covered. In this embodiment, whether thefinger 6406 or another object is moving from the first diode 6402 to thesecond diode 6404, or from the second diode 6404 to the first diode 6402can be determined based on the signals from the diodes. For example, thefinger 6406 sliding in a forward direction would trigger a signal fromthe first diode 6402 before the second diode 6404. On the other hand,sliding the finger in a backward direction would trigger a signal fromthe second diode before the first diode. Thus, the outputs from the twodiodes can show the direction of movement of the finger. One can then,for example, assign forward movement (from the first 6402 to the second6404) as increment, and backward movement (from the second 6402 to thefirst 6402) as decrement.

A switch can be placed at different location on a pair of glasses. Inone embodiment, the switch is positioned on one of the side surfaces ofone of the temples, such as the side that is not facing the face of theuser when the glasses are worn. In another embodiment, the switch ispositioned on a top surface of one of the temples. The switch 6028 shownin FIG. 75 falls under this category. In yet another embodiment, theswitch is positioned at one of the joints or hinges of the glasses. Forexample, there is a mechanical switch at a joint. If the correspondingtemple is extended, as in the position when the glasses are worn, theswitch will be pressed, which can indicate that the switch has beenactivated.

In one embodiment, the user can be using a switch when the glasses areworn. Depending on the position and the type of switch, the user may notbe able to see the switch when he is manipulating it. In one embodiment,the design of the switch takes into consideration perception. Toillustrate, there are two mechanical switches on the glasses. The topsurfaces of the two switches have different texture. One switch has asmooth surface and the other has a rough surface. Pushing the roughsurface implies incrementing one step and pushing the smooth surfaceimplies decrementing one step. This type of perception design is basedon tactile effect. In another example, the heights of the two switchesare different. The taller switch is for one effect and the shorter isfor another. In yet another embodiment, the lateral position of the twoswitches has significance. For example, the two mechanical switches areon the top surface or edge of a temple. By pushing the switch closer tothe lens holder, the volume of the speaker in the glasses goes up; andby pushing the switch further away from the lens holder, the volume ofthe speaker goes down. In another example, the two switches are underthe two ends of a piece of materials, such as a rocker-lever, which canbe plastic. Rocking the plastic piece forward is an increment motion,and rocking the plastic piece backwards is a decrement motion.

A number of embodiments have been described where information isavailable only for a relatively short duration of time. In oneembodiment, the information is available for a longer duration of time.For example, after the short duration of time, the battery in theglasses is drained. In order to continue on running the electronicsinside the glasses to get the information, the user can replace thebattery in the glasses with a new battery. In this embodiment, theglasses are designed so that the battery is replaceable by the user. Or,in another embodiment, the battery is rechargeable through a connectorat the glasses.

A number of embodiments have been described regarding the glasses with aspeaker for providing information to the user. In one embodiment, theglasses also include one or more light emitting diodes. The LEDs can befor entertaining purposes. For example, the information provided to theuser is music. If the audio signals received are beyond a certainthreshold, one or more of the LEDs will be activated. The activation ofthe one or more LEDs can then be synchronized to the sound of thespeaker. In another example, a number of LEDs could be arranged as anarray on the outside surface of one of the temples. The array coulddisplay graphics, pictures, or scrolling text. The array could also belocated at other locations on the glasses, such as across the frontsurface or the top surface of the bridge or the lens-holders of theglasses.

One embodiment of the glasses includes a specially-designed surfacetexture, such as on the outside surface of a temple of the glasses. Byscratching the surface texture, depending on its design, one cangenerate specific audio tones.

A number of embodiments have been described regarding electricalcomponents in a temple of a pair of glasses. All of the electroniccomponents can be self-contained inside the temple of the glasses. Thecomponents can be coupled to a printed circuit board. In otherembodiments, some of the components are embedded fully or partially inother areas of the glasses, such as the lens holders or the bridge ofthe glasses. Or, one or more electrical components can be in a shield ofthe glasses.

A number of embodiments have been described regarding informationavailable for a pair of glasses. In one embodiment, a pair of glassesalso includes an information input mechanism that allows its user toinput information into the glasses. Such information allows the user toprovide inputs or feedbacks.

The information input mechanism can be implemented by a switch at theglasses, such as one of the switches previously described. The userinput can be stored in the glasses if the glasses include memory storageelectrical components. The input can be wirelessly transmitted from theglasses to a remote device if the glasses include wireless transceiverelectrical components. For example, the user is at a football game, andthe referee has made a controversial call. A broadcaster at the eventcan instantaneously use such glasses to perform a simple polling. Thiscan be done by the broadcaster as part of the wireless transmission ofinformation (e.g., event information) to the wearer of the glasses.Alternatively, the broadcaster can transmit a message to the user. Inone embodiment, there can be an indicator on the glasses to indicatethat there is a message for the wearer of the glasses. The indicator canbe a LED light flashing for a few seconds, a ringing tone that rings fora few seconds, or other types of indication at the glasses. In any case,if desired, the wearer can receive the message. The message asks thewearer to push a button (an information input mechanism) at the glassesone time, if the wearer believes the call was correct, and two timesotherwise. Such input information from the glasses is then wirelesslytransmitted from the glasses and received by the broadcaster. Statisticson the responses can then be automatically performed. Such statisticscan be provided almost instantaneously to, for example, the referee.

In one embodiment, each pair of such glasses also includes an identifierthat identifies the glasses, such as an identification number. Wheninput information is transmitted from such a pair of glasses, such asback to the broadcaster, its identifier can also be transmitted togetherwith the corresponding input information.

Organizers of an event or a company affiliated with or related to theevent also can use the glasses to gather other information from thewearers of the glasses, such as the audience of the event. For example,the audience can be electronically polled regarding ways to improve onthe services they received.

The information input mechanism can include a microphone at the glasses.The organizers again can send a message to a user of a pair of suchglasses. The message can be as follows: “If you like the ways we takefood orders, say yes. If not, say no.” The voice response from the useris transmitted to the organizers. Such simple yes/no responses can beautomatically deciphered based on voice recognition mechanisms and thenautomatically tabulated for the organizers.

In one embodiment, not all of the electrical components in a number ofthe glasses previously described are in the glasses. Instead, at leastone of the electrical components, such as its power source, is in aportable device, which can also be carried by the user of the glasses.In another embodiment, a pair of glasses can function as a headset andare wired or wirelessly coupled to a portable device. The portabledevice can provide additional areas for user input, or outputs to theuser.

As an example of wireless coupling for a pair of glasses functioning asa headset, the glasses include a wireless transceiver that is based on,for example, Bluetooth, UWB, Zigbee, or other types of short-distancewireless transmission standards. Based on the transceiver, the glassesare wirelessly coupled to a corresponding portable device. Informationfrom long distances can be received by the portable device, which canthen re-transmit such information to the glasses.

As an example of wired coupling for a pair of glasses functioning as aheadset, the glasses include a connector. The connector can be used toelectrically connect to a portable device through, for example, a wire.In one embodiment, the connector at the glasses is a male connector andis located at the tip of one temple of the glasses, such as at the tipposition 6019 of the second temple 6018, shown in FIG. 75 . When themale connector is not inserted into a female connector, the maleconnector can be covered, such as with a cap or a cover, to protect,encapsulate or shroud the connector. In one embodiment, at least aportion of the connector is covered.

Different embodiments of glasses functioning as a headset have beendescribed in copending patent application, entitled, “EYEGLASSES WITHHEARING ENHANCED AND OTHER AUDIO SIGNAL-GENERATING CAPABILITIES”, whichwas incorporated by reference above, and can be used with the variousembodiments described herein.

A number of embodiments have been described regarding glasses with anumber of structural elements. In one embodiment, the glasses can berimless frames. The glasses can include two lenses held together by abridge. A temple can be attached to each lens through a joint that isconnected to the corresponding lens by one or more screws. For example,there can be two screws at each lens to hold onto a temple piece, whichincludes a joint for a corresponding temple. One or more electricalcomponents can be fully or partially embedded in the glasses, such as ina temple of the glasses.

A number of embodiments have been described with glasses. In oneembodiment, a device, which is not a pair of glasses, can provideinformation to a user, where the information can be directly relevant toan event attended by the user. There can also be a user input mechanismat the device to allow the user to provide user input, including userfeedback. Different embodiments of electrical components previouslydescribed can be in the device. Advantageously, in one embodiment, thedifferent embodiments of components have minimal impact on the design ofthe end product and no tedious wiring is required. For example, in thecase in which the end product is an eyeglass frame, a temple of theeyeglass frame can have an opening, cavity or container to hold orencompass the different embodiments of components, whereby no otherchanges or complications to the eyeglass frames need be imposed. Othersuch end-products can include: hats, shoes, watches, tee-shirt,swimming-suit, key-ring, purse, beer can holder, and other consumerproducts.

The various embodiments, implementations and features of the inventionnoted above can be combined in various ways or used separately. Thoseskilled in the art will understand from the description that theinvention can be equally applied to or used in other various differentsettings with respect to various combinations, embodiments,implementations or features provided in the description herein.

A number of embodiments in the invention can be implemented in software,hardware or a combination of hardware and software. A number ofembodiments of the invention can also be embodied as computer readablecode on a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium is anydata storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read bya computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium includeread-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, magnetic tape, opticaldata storage devices, and carrier waves. The computer readable mediumcan also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so thatthe computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributedfashion.

Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the present invention. However, it will become obviousto those skilled in the art that the invention may be practiced withoutthese specific details. The description and representation herein arethe common meanings used by those experienced or skilled in the art tomost effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled inthe art. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components,and circuitry have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarilyobscuring aspects of the present invention.

In the foregoing description, reference to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment can beincluded in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances ofthe phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specificationare not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor areseparate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of otherembodiments. Further, the order of blocks in process flowcharts ordiagrams representing one or more embodiments of the invention do notinherently indicate any particular order nor imply any limitations inthe invention.

The many features and advantages of the present invention are apparentfrom the written description and, thus, it is intended by the appendedclaims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention.Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur tothose skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention tothe exact construction and operation as illustrated and described.Hence, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to asfalling within the scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A head-worn personal audio apparatus operable toat least output customized audio output, comprising: a pair of speakers,each of the speakers being configured to be wearable proximate to an earof a user; a wireless receiver configured to wirelessly receive audiooutput signals to be output to the user via the pair of speakers; acontroller configured to (i) customize the received audio output signalsto produce customized audio output signals for the user based on atleast stored hearing characteristics associated with the user such thatthe customized audio output signals at least compensate for the hearingimpairment regarding the user's ability to hear; and (ii) output thecustomized audio output signals to the pair of speakers, wherein each ofthe speakers is configured to generate at least a portion of thecustomized audio output for the user in accordance with at least theportion of the customized audio output signals being received.
 2. Ahead-worn personal audio apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein thereceived audio output signals are wirelessly received from a mobilecommunication device associated with the user.
 3. A head-worn personalaudio apparatus operable to at least output customized audio output,comprising: a pair of speakers, each of the speakers being configured tobe wearable proximate to an ear of a user; a wireless receiverconfigured to wirelessly receive customized audio output signals for theuser based on at least stored hearing characteristics associated withthe user such that the customized audio output signals at leastcompensate for the hearing impairment regarding the user's ability tohear; and a controller configured to output the customized audio outputsignals to the pair of speakers, wherein each of the speakers isconfigured to generate at least a portion of the customized audio outputfor the user in accordance with at least the portion of the customizedaudio output signals being received.
 4. A head-worn personal audioapparatus as recited in claim 3, wherein the received customized audiooutput signals are wirelessly received from a mobile communicationdevice associated with the user.
 5. A wearable audio generatingapparatus as shown or described herein.